48in, 52in, or 60in TITAN® HD 1500 Series Riding Mower

• For best results, use only clean, fresh (less than 30 days old), unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher ((R+M)/2 rating method).

• Ethanol: Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol (gasohol) or 15% MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) by volume is acceptable. Ethanol and MTBE are not the same. Gasoline with 15% ethanol (E15) by volume is not approved for use. Never use gasoline that contains more than 10% ethanol by volume, such as E15 (contains 15% ethanol), E20 (contains 20% ethanol), or E85 (contains up to 85% ethanol). Using unapproved gasoline may cause performance problems and/or engine damage which may not be covered under warranty.

• Do not use gasoline containing methanol.

• Do not store fuel either in the fuel tank or fuel containers over the winter unless you use a fuel stabilizer.

• Do not add oil to gasoline.

Use a fuel stabilizer/conditioner in the machine to provide the following benefits:

• Keeps fuel fresh longer when used as directed by the fuel-stabilizer manufacturer

• Cleans the engine while it runs

• Eliminates gum-like varnish buildup in the fuel system, which causes hard starting

  Important: Do not use fuel additives containing methanol or ethanol.

  Add the correct amount of fuel stabilizer/conditioner to the fuel.

  Note: A fuel stabilizer/conditioner is most effective when mixed with fresh fuel. To minimize the chance of varnish deposits in the fuel system, use fuel stabilizer at all times.

1. Park the machine on a level surface.

2. Engage the parking brake.

3. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

4. Clean around the fuel-tank cap.

5. Fill the fuel tank to the bottom of the filler neck (Figure 9).

   Note: Do not fill the fuel tank completely full. The empty space in the tank allows the fuel to expand.

   

   Figure 9

Important: Lower the roll bar only when absolutely necessary.

1. To lower the roll bar, apply forward pressure to the upper part of the roll bar.

2. Pull both knobs out and rotate them 90 degrees so that they are not engaged (Figure 10).

3. Lower the roll bar to the down position (Figure 10).

   

   Figure 10

   1. Roll bar in the upright position
   2. ROPS knob in the latched position
   3. Pull the ROPS knob out.
   4. Rotate the ROPS knob 90 degrees.
   5. ROPS knob in the unlatched position
   6. Roll bar in the folded position

Important: Always use the seat belt with the roll bar in the raised position.

1. Raise the roll bar to the operating position and rotate the knobs until they move partially into the grooves (Figure 10).

2. Raise the roll bar to the full upright position while pushing on the upper roll bar so that the pins snap into position when the holes align with the pins (Figure 10).

3. Push on the roll bar and ensure that both pins are engaged.

The safety-interlock system is designed to prevent the engine from starting unless:

• The blade-control switch (PTO) is disengaged.

• The motion-control levers are in the NEUTRAL-LOCK position.

• The parking brake is engaged.

The safety-interlock system is also designed to shut off the engine when the traction controls are moved from the locked position with the parking brake engaged or if you rise from the seat when the PTO is engaged.

The hour meter has symbols to notify the user when the interlock component is in the correct position. When the component is in the correct position, a triangle lights up in the corresponding square.

Figure 11

1. Triangles light up when the interlock components are in the correct position

Test the safety-interlock system before you use the machine each time. If the safety system does not operate as described below, have an Authorized Service Dealer repair the safety system immediately.

1. Sit on the seat, engage the parking brake, and move the blade-control switch (PTO) to the ON position. Try starting the engine; the engine should not crank.

2. Sit on the seat, engage the parking brake, and move the blade-control switch (PTO) to the OFF position. Move either motion-control lever (out of the NEUTRAL-LOCK position). Try starting the engine; the engine should not crank. Repeat for other control lever.

3. Sit on the seat, engage the parking brake, move the blade-control switch (PTO) to the OFF position, and move the motion-control levers to the NEUTRAL-LOCK position. Start the engine. While the engine is running, disengage the parking brake, engage the blade-control switch (PTO), and rise slightly from the seat; the engine should shut off.

4. Sit on the seat, engage the parking brake, move the blade-control switch (PTO) to the OFF position, and move the motion-control levers to NEUTRAL-LOCK position. Start the engine. While the engine is running, center either motion-control lever and move it forward or reverse; the engine should shut off. Repeat for other motion-control lever.

5. Sit on the seat, disengage the parking brake, move the blade-control switch (PTO) to the OFF position, and move the motion-control levers to NEUTRAL-LOCK position. Try starting the engine; the engine should not crank.

The slots for the rear-shock assemblies have detent positions for reference. You can position the rear-shock assemblies anywhere in the slot, not just in the detent positions.

The following graphic shows the position for a soft or firm ride and the different detent positions (Figure 14).

Figure 14

1. Firmest position
2. Softest position
3. Detents in the slots

Note: Ensure that the left and right rear-shock assemblies are always adjusted to the same positions.

Adjust the rear-shock assemblies (Figure 15).

Figure 15

Park the machine on a level surface.

Figure 20

Note: Engaging the blade-control switch (PTO) with the throttle position at half or less causes excessive wear to the drive belts.

Figure 22

Let the engine idle at slow throttle for 60 seconds before turning the switch off.

Figure 27

Important: Make sure that the fuel-shutoff valve is closed before transporting or storing the machine to prevent fuel leakage. Engage the parking brake before transporting. Remove the key as the fuel pump may run and cause the battery to lose charge.

Let the engine idle at mid-throttle for 60 seconds before turning the switch off.

Figure 28

Important: Make sure that the fuel-shutoff valve is closed before transporting or storing the machine to prevent fuel leakage. Engage the parking brake before transporting. Remove the key as the fuel pump may run and cause the battery to lose charge.

Note: Ensure the throttle is in the FAST position before shutting off the engine.

Figure 29

Important: Make sure that the fuel-shutoff valve is closed before transporting or storing the machine to prevent fuel leakage. Engage the parking brake before transporting. Remove the key as the fuel pump may run and cause the battery to lose charge.

Note: The engine shuts off when you move the traction-control with the parking brake engaged.

To stop the machine, pull the motion-control levers to the NEUTRAL position.

1. Disengage the parking brake; refer to Disengaging the Parking Brake.

2. Move the levers to the center, unlocked position.

3. To go forward, slowly push the motion-control levers forward (Figure 31).

   

   Figure 31

1. Move the levers to the center, unlocked position.

2. To go backward, slowly pull the motion-control levers rearward (Figure 32).

   

   Figure 32

The transport lock has 2 positions, and is used with the deck-lift pedal. There is a LOCK position and an UNLOCK position for the transport position of the mower deck (Figure 33).

Figure 33

Transport-Lock Positions

1. Transport lock knob
2. LOCK position—The mower deck locks into the transport position.
3. UNLOCK position—The mower deck does not lock into the transport position.

Adjust the height-of-cut from 38 to 127 mm (1-1/2 to 5 inches) in 6 mm (1/4 inch) increments by moving the height-of-cut pin into different hole locations.

1. Move the transport lock to the LOCK position.

2. Push on the deck-lift pedal with your foot and raise the mower deck to the TRANSPORT position (also the 127 mm or 5 inch cutting-height position) as shown in Figure 34.

3. Remove the pin from the height-of-cut bracket (Figure 34).

4. Select a hole in the height-of-cut bracket corresponding to the height-of-cut desired, and insert the pin (Figure 34).

5. Push on the deck lift, pull up on the transport lock knob, and slowly lower the mower deck.

   

   Figure 34

   1. Deck-lift pedal
   2. Height-of-cut holes
   3. Height-of-cut pin
   4. Transport lock knob

For best mowing and maximum air circulation, operate the engine at the FAST position. Air is required to thoroughly cut grass clippings, so do not set the height-of-cut so low as to totally surround the mower deck in uncut grass. Always try to have 1 side of the mower deck free from uncut grass, which allows air to be drawn into the mower deck.

Cut grass slightly longer than normal to ensure that the cutting height of the mower deck does not scalp any uneven ground. However, the cutting height used in the past is generally the best one to use. When cutting grass longer than 15 cm (6 inches) tall, you may want to cut the lawn twice to ensure an acceptable quality of cut.

It is best to cut only about a third of the grass blade. Cutting more than that is not recommended unless grass is sparse, or it is late fall when grass grows more slowly.

Alternate the mowing direction to keep the grass standing straight. This also helps disperse clippings, which enhances decomposition and fertilization.

Grass grows at different rates at different times of the year. To maintain the same cutting height, mow more often in early spring. As the grass growth rate slows in mid summer, mow less frequently. If you cannot mow for an extended period, first mow at a high cutting height, then mow again 2 days later at a lower height setting.

To improve cut quality, use a slower ground speed in certain conditions.

When mowing uneven turf, raise the cutting height to avoid scalping the turf.

If you must stop the forward motion of the machine while mowing, a clump of grass clippings may drop onto your lawn. To avoid this, move onto a previously cut area with the blades engaged or you can disengage the mower deck while moving forward.

Clean clippings and dirt from the underside of the mower deck after each use. If grass and dirt build up inside the mower deck, cutting quality will eventually become unsatisfactory.

Maintain a sharp blade throughout the cutting season because a sharp blade cuts cleanly without tearing or shredding the grass blades. Tearing and shredding turns grass brown at the edges, which slows growth and increases the chance of disease. Check the mower blades after each use for sharpness, and for any wear or damage. File down any nicks and sharpen the blades as necessary. If a blade is damaged or worn, replace it immediately with a genuine Toro replacement blade.

1. If using a trailer, connect it to the towing vehicle and connect the safety chains.

2. If applicable, connect the trailer brakes and lights.

3. Lower the ramp, ensuring that the angle between the ramp and the ground does not exceed 15 degrees (Figure 40).

4. Back the machine up the ramp (Figure 41).

   

   Figure 41

   1. Back the machine up the ramp.
   2. Drive the machine forward down the ramp.

5. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and engage the parking brake.

6. Tie down the machine near the front caster wheels and the rear bumper with straps, chains, cable, or ropes (Figure 42). Refer to local regulations for tie-down requirements.

   

   Figure 42

   1. Tie-down loops

1. Lower the ramp, ensuring that the angle between the ramp and the ground does not exceed 15 degrees (Figure 40).

2. Drive the machine forward down the ramp (Figure 41).

Note: Check the filters more frequently if the operating conditions are extremely dusty or sandy.

Ensure that the air gap between the center and side electrodes is correct before installing the spark plug. Use a spark plug wrench for removing and installing the spark plug and a gapping tool or feeler gauge to check and adjust the air gap. Install a new spark plug if necessary.

Type of Spark Plug: NGK^® BPR4ES or equivalent

Air Gap: 0.75 mm (0.03 inch)

Checking the Spark Plug

Important: Do not clean the spark plug(s). Always replace the spark plug(s) when it has a black coating, worn electrodes, an oily film, or cracks.

If you see light brown or gray on the insulator, the engine is operating properly. A black coating on the insulator usually means the air cleaner is dirty.

Set the gap to 0.75 mm (0.03 inch).

Figure 54

Installing the Spark Plug

Figure 55

This engine is equipped with a replaceable, high-density paper and foam air-cleaner element. Check the air cleaner daily or before starting the engine. Check for a buildup of dirt and debris around the air-cleaner system. Keep this area clean. Also, check for loose or damaged components. Replace all bent or damaged air-cleaner components.

Note: Operating the engine with loose or damaged air-cleaner components could allow unfiltered air into the engine, causing premature wear and failure.

Note: Service the air cleaner more often under dusty, dirty conditions.

The spark plug is RFI compliant; you can also use an equivalent plug.

Type: Champion XC12YC

Air Gap: 0.76 mm (0.03 inch)

Checking the Spark Plug

Important: Do not clean the spark plug(s). Always replace the spark plug(s) when it has a black coating, worn electrodes, an oily film, or cracks.

If you see light brown or gray on the insulator, the engine is operating properly. A black coating on the insulator usually means the air cleaner is dirty.

Set the gap to 0.76 mm (0.03 inch).

Figure 65

Installing the Spark Plug

Figure 66

To ensure proper cooling, ensure that the grass screen, cooling fins, and other external surfaces of the engine are kept clean at all times.

For Kohler engines, remove the blower housing, and any other cooling shrouds. Clean the cooling fins and external surfaces as necessary. Make sure that the cooling shrouds are installed.

Important: Operating the engine with a blocked grass screen, dirty or plugged cooling fins, and/or cooling shrouds removed, will cause engine damage due to overheating.

Note: Check the filters more frequently if the operating conditions are extremely dusty or sandy.

Ensure that the air gap between the center and side electrodes is correct before installing the spark plug. Use a spark plug wrench for removing and installing the spark plug and a gapping tool or feeler gauge to check and adjust the air gap. Install a new spark plug if necessary.

Type: Champion^® RN9YC or NGK^® BPR6ES

Air gap: 0.76 mm (0.03 inch)

Checking the Spark Plug

Important: Do not clean the spark plug(s). Always replace the spark plug(s) when it has a black coating, worn electrodes, an oily film, or cracks.

If you see light brown or gray on the insulator, the engine is operating properly. A black coating on the insulator usually means the air cleaner is dirty.

Set the gap to 0.76 mm (0.03 inch).

Figure 78

Installing the Spark Plug

Figure 79

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Remove the air filter from the engine.

4. Remove the engine shroud.

5. To prevent debris entering the air intake, install the air filter to the filter base.

6. Clean debris and grass from the parts.

7. Remove the air filter and install the engine shroud.

8. Install the air filter.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Disconnect the negative (black) ground cable from the battery post (Figure 81).

   Note: Retain all fasteners.

   Warning

   Incorrectly removing the cables from battery could damage the machine and cables, causing sparks. Sparks can cause the battery gasses to explode, resulting in personal injury.

   • Always disconnect the negative (black) battery cable before disconnecting the positive (red) cable.

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

4. Slide the rubber cover off the positive (red) cable.

5. Disconnect the positive (red) cable from the battery post (Figure 81).

   Note: Retain all fasteners.

6. Remove the rubber strap (Figure 81).

7. Remove the battery.

   

   Figure 81

Important: Always keep the battery fully charged (1.265 specific gravity). This is especially important to prevent battery damage when the temperature is below 0°C (32°F).

1. Remove the battery from the chassis; refer to Removing the Battery.

2. Charge the battery for 10 to 15 minutes at 25 to 30 A or for 30 minutes at 10 A.

   Note: Do not overcharge the battery.

3. When the battery is fully charged, unplug the charger from the electrical outlet, then disconnect the charger leads from the battery posts (Figure 82).

4. Install the battery in the machine and connect the battery cables; refer to Installing the Battery.

   Note: Do not run the machine with the battery disconnected; electrical damage may occur.

   

   Figure 82

   1. Positive (+) battery post
   2. Negative (–) battery post
   3. Red (+) charger lead
   4. Black (–) charger lead

1. Position the battery in the tray with the terminal posts opposite from the hydraulic tank (Figure 81).

2. Install the positive (red) battery cable to the positive (+) battery terminal.

3. Install the negative (black) battery cable and ground wire to the negative (-) battery terminal.

   Note: For MyRide machines, ensure that the ground cable does not rub against the trailing arm or lower shock mount (Figure 84).

   

   Figure 83

   1. Ensure that the ground cable does not rub against the lower shock mount.
   2. Ensure that the ground cable does not rub against the trailing arm.
   3. Ground cable

4. Secure the cables with 2 bolts, 2 washers, and 2 locknuts (Figure 81).

5. Slide the red terminal boot onto the positive (+) battery terminal.

6. Secure the battery with the rubber strap (Figure 81).

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Lower the mower to the 76 mm (3 inches) height of cut.

4. Lift the floor pan up to gain access to the center pulley.

5. Remove the plastic belt cover (Figure 97).

6. Remove the 3 bolts holding the metal belt cover in place and remove the metal belt cover.

   

   Figure 96

   1. Idler spring
   2. Counter-rotating belt
   3. Double pulley
   4. Idler pulley
   5. Square hole in the idler arm for the ratchet

7. Use a ratchet in the square hole in the idler arm to remove tension on the idler spring (Figure 96).

8. Remove the belt from the mower deck pulley (Figure 96).

9. Remove the belt from the remaining pulleys (Figure 96).

10. Route the new belt abound the mower pulleys.

11. Using the ratchet in the square hole, remove the tension on the spring, and guide the new belt around the idler pulley (Figure 96).

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Lower the mower to the 76 mm (3 inches) height of cut.

4. Remove the belt covers (Figure 97).

   

   Figure 97

5. Remove the counter-rotating belt; refer to Replacing the Counter-Rotating Belt.

6. Use a ratchet in the square hole in the idler arm to remove tension on the idler spring (Figure 98).

7. Remove the belt from the mower-deck pulleys and the clutch pulley.

8. Install the new belt around the mower pulleys and the clutch pulley under the engine (Figure 98).

   

   Figure 98

   1. Mower belt
   2. Spring-loaded idler pulley
   3. Square hole in the idler arm for the ratchet
   4. Counter-rotating belt

9. Rotate and ensure the belt-guide tab hits against the pivot hub (Figure 98).

10. Using the ratchet in the square hole, install the belt around the spring-loaded idler pulley (Figure 98). Seat the spring ends in the anchor grooves.

11. Install the counter-rotating belt; refer to Replacing the Counter-Rotating Belt.

12. Install the belt covers (Figure 99).

    

    Figure 99

You can adjust the motion control levers higher or lower for maximum comfort.

1. Disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), move the motion-control levers to the NEUTRAL-LOCK position, and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Remove the hardware holding the control lever to the control-arm shaft.

   

   Figure 102

   1. Bolts
   2. Slotted hole
   3. Control lever
   4. Control-arm shaft

4. Move the control lever to the next set of holes. Secure the lever with the hardware.

5. Repeat the adjustment for the opposite control lever.

1. Disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), move the motion-control levers to the NEUTRAL-LOCK position, and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Loosen the upper bolt holding the control lever to the control arm shaft.

4. Loosen the lower bolt just enough to pivot the control lever fore or aft. Tighten both bolts to secure the control in the new position.

5. Repeat the adjustment for the opposite control lever.

   

   Figure 103

Hydraulic Fluid Type: Toro^® HYPR-OIL^™ 500 hydraulic fluid (preferred) or Mobil 1 15W-50 oil.

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

Hydraulic System Capacity (with filters removed): 4.45 L (150 fl oz)

1. Allow the hydraulic fluid to cool down. Check the oil level when the fluid is cold.

2. Check expansion reservoir and if necessary add Toro^® HYPR-OIL^™ 500 hydraulic fluid to the FULL COLD line.

   

   Figure 105

   1. Engine
   2. Expansion tank

Change the filters and fluid at the same time. Do not use the fluid again. Purge any air in the system after you install the new filters and add fluid. Refer to Bleeding the Hydraulic System.

Repeat the bleeding process until the fluid remains at the FULL COLD line in the reservoir after purging. Failure to properly perform this procedure can result in irreparable damage to the transaxle drive system.

Installing the Hydraulic-System Filters

1. Apply a thin coat of hydraulic fluid on the surface of the rubber seal of each filter.

2. Turn the filter clockwise until the rubber seal contacts the filter adapter, then tighten the filter an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn.

3. Repeat for the opposite filter.

4. Install the filter guards over each filter that you previously removed.

5. Use the 3 screws to secure the filter guards.

6. Verify that the vent plugs are removed before adding the fluid.

7. Slowly pour the specified fluid through the expansion reservoir until fluid comes out of 1 of the vent-plug holes.

8. Install the vent plug.

9. Torque the plug to 20 N∙m (15 ft-lb).

10. Continue to add fluid through the expansion reservoir until fluid comes out of the remaining vent-plug hole on the second transmission.

11. Install the opposite vent plug.

12. Torque the plug to 20 N∙m (15 ft-lb).

13. Continue to add fluid through the expansion reservoir until it reaches the FULL COLD line on the expansion reservoir.

14. Proceed to Bleeding the Hydraulic System.

    Important: Failure to perform the Bleeding the Hydraulic System procedure after changing hydraulic filters and fluid can result in irreparable damage to the transaxle drive system.

Figure 107

1. Raise the rear of machine and support it with jack stands (or equivalent support) just high enough to allow the drive wheels to turn freely.

   

   Figure 108

   1. Jacking points

2. Start the engine, move the throttle control ahead to the 1/2 throttle position, and disengage the parking brake.

   1. Move the bypass levers into the pushing the machine position. With the bypass valves open and the engine running, slowly move the motion-control levers in both forward and reverse 5 or 6 times.

   2. Move the bypass levers into the operating the machine position.

   3. With the bypass valve closed and the engine running, slowly move the control lever in both forward and reverse directions 5 to 6 times.

   4. Shut off the engine and check the fluid level in the expansion reservoir. Add the specified fluid until it reaches the FULL COLD line on the expansion reservoir.

3. Repeat step 2 until all the air is completely purged from the system.

   Note: When the transaxle operates at normal noise levels, moves smoothly forward, and reverses at normal speeds, it is purged.

4. Check the fluid level in the expansion reservoir a final time. Add the specified fluid as until it reaches the FULL COLD line on the expansion reservoir.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and disconnect the spark-plug wires from the spark plugs.

1. Inspect the cutting edges (Figure 109).

2. If the edges are not sharp or have nicks, remove and sharpen the blade; refer to Sharpening the Blades.

3. Inspect the blades, especially in the curved area.

4. If you notice any cracks, wear, or a slot forming in this area, immediately install a new blade (Figure 109).

   

   Figure 109

   1. Cutting edge
   2. Curved area
   3. Wear/slot forming
   4. Crack

Note: The machine must be on a level surface for the following procedure.

1. Raise the mower deck to the highest height-of-cut position.

2. While wearing thickly padded gloves, or other adequate hand protection, slowly rotate the blade into a position that allows you to measure the distance between the cutting edge and the level surface the machine is on (Figure 110).

   

   Figure 110

   1. Deck
   2. Spindle housing
   3. Blade

3. Measure from the tip of the blade to the flat surface (Figure 111).

   

   Figure 111

   1. Blade (in position for measuring)
   2. Level surface
   3. Measured distance between blade and the surface (A)

4. Rotate the same blade 180 degrees so that the opposing cutting edge is now in the same position (Figure 112).

   

   Figure 112

   1. Blade (side previously measured)
   2. Measurement (position used previously)
   3. Opposing side of blade being moved into measurement position

5. Measure from the tip of the blade to the flat surface (Figure 113).

   Note: The variance should be no more than 3 mm (1/8 inch).

   

   Figure 113

   1. Opposite blade edge (in position for measuring)
   2. Level surface
   3. Second measured distance between blade and surface (B)

   1. If the difference between A and B is greater than 3 mm (1/8 inch), replace the blade with a new blade; refer to Replacing the Blades for Side Discharge Mower Decks or Replacing the Blades for Rear Discharge Mower Decks.

      Note: If a bent blade is replaced with a new blade, and the dimension obtained continues to exceed 3 mm (1/8 inch), the blade spindle could be bent. Contact an Authorized Service Dealer for service.

   2. If the variance is within constraints, move to the next blade.

6. Repeat this procedure on each blade.

1. Use a file to sharpen the cutting edge at both ends of the blade (Figure 117).

   Note: Maintain the original angle.

   Note: The blade retains its balance if the same amount of material is removed from both cutting edges.

   

   Figure 117

   1. Sharpen at original angle.

2. Check the balance of the blade by putting it on a blade balancer (Figure 118).

   Note: If the blade stays in a horizontal position, the blade is balanced and can be used.

   Note: If the blade is not balanced, file some metal off the end of the sail area only (Figure 117).

   

   Figure 118

   1. Blade
   2. Balancer

3. Repeat this procedure until the blade is balanced.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Check the tire pressure in the drive tires. Refer to Checking the Tire Pressure.

4. Position the mower deck in the transport-lock position.

5. Carefully rotate the blades from side to side.

6. Measure between the blade tip and the flat surface (Figure 119). If the measurements are not within 5 mm (3/16 inch), adjust the leveling; continue with this procedure.

   

   Figure 119

   1. Blades side to side
   2. Blade tip
   3. Measure from the tip of the blade to the flat surface here.

7. Check the front-to-rear blade level (Figure 120). Ensure the front blade tip is lower than the rear blade tip as shown in the block height and rake table. If it needs adjustment, continue with this procedure.

   

   Figure 120

   1. Blades front to rear
   2. Blade tip
   3. Measure from the tip of the blade to the flat surface here.

8. Set the anti-scalp rollers to top holes or remove them completely for this adjustment.

9. Place 2 blocks (see table below) under the rear edge of the cutting deck skirt; 1 on each side of the cutting deck (Figure 121).

10. Set the height-of-cut lever to the 3 inch (76 mm) position.

11. Place 2 blocks under each side of the front edge of the deck, but not under the anti-scalp roller brackets or welds.

    

    Figure 121

    Bottom view

    1. Block—7.3 cm (2.87 inches)
    2. Welds

    Block Height and Rake Table

    Deck Size	Block Height	Rake
    All mower decks	7.3 cm (2.87 inches)	4.8 to 6.4 mm (3/16 to 1/4 inch)

12. Carefully rotate the blades side to side (Figure 119).

13. Loosen the locknuts (Figure 122) on all 4 corners and ensure that the mower deck is sitting securely on all 4 blocks.

14. Remove any slack from the deck hangers and make sure the deck-lift foot lever is pushed back against the stop.

15. Tighten the 4 locknuts.

    

    Figure 122

    1. Locknuts
    2. Deck-lift arm
    3. Deck hanger
    4. Chain

16. Ensure that the blocks fit snugly under the deck skirt and that all attachment bolts are tight

17. Continue leveling the deck by checking the front-to-rear blade slope.

18. Check the blades for levelness and repeat deck leveling procedure if necessary.