Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for

20” STEEL DECK

WALK MOWERS

SERIES 13

MODEL

R204513E

MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION

R 20 45 13 E

MODEL DESIGNATION

CUTTING WIDTH

ENGINE HORSE POWER

R – Recycling Model

ENGINE OPTIONS

SERIES DESIGNATION

13 - Series Designation

20 – 20” Cutting Width

45 – 4.5 HP (Engine Horse Power)

E – Electric Start Model

Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Product! Before operating your Walk Behind, read this manual carefully and pay particular attention to the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on Pages 2 & 3. Remember that all power equipment can be dangerous if used improperly. Also keep in mind that SAFETY requires careful use in accordance with the operating instructions and common sense.

COPYRIGHT © 1999

SNAPPER INC.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

MANUAL No. 7-2036 .(REV. 1, 5/17/99)

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result in serious injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine. Each person operating the machine must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any substance, which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. If you have any questions pertaining to your machine which your dealer cannot answer to your satisfaction, call or write the Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, McDonough,

Georgia 30253. Phone: (1-800-935-2967).

PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN PREPARATION

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity.

Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

1. KEEP children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult.

2. DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is operated and turn machine OFF if anyone

enters the area.

3. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate

machine.

4. ALLOW only responsible adults & teenagers with mature judgment under close adult

supervision to operate machine.

5. DO NOT pull mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. LOOK BEHIND and down

for small children before and when backing.

4. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved fuel container. Never remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine running. Add fuel outdoors only with engine stopped and cool. Clean spilled fuel and oil from machine. DO NOT smoke. DO NOT run engine indoors.

5. Check the area to be mowed and remove all objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other objects that could cause injury if thrown by blade or interfere with mowing. Also note the location of holes, stumps, and other possible

hazards.

6. Keep people and pets a safe distance from

machine. corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may

obscure vision.

SLOPE OPERATION

1. Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.

2. Mow across slopes, never up-and-down.

Exercise extreme CAUTION when changing directions on slopes. DO NOT mow steep slopes or other areas where stability or traction

is in doubt.

PREPARATION

1. Read, understand, and follow instructions and warnings in this manual and on the mower and with attachments. Know the controls and the proper use of the mower before starting.

2. Only mature, responsible persons shall operate the machine and only after proper instruction.

3. Data indicates that operators age 60 and above, are involved in a large percentage of mowerrelated injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury. controls and other safety devices frequently for

proper operation and location.

8. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible.

Replace if damaged.

9. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses, long pants and substantial footwear.

DO NOT mow barefooted or with sandals.

10. Know how to STOP blade and engine quickly in

preparation for emergencies.

11. Use extra care when loading or unloading the

machine into a trailer or truck.

OPERATION

1. DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of discharge area while engine is running. walks, or roads, and under any conditions where thrown objects might be a hazard.

3. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. influence of alcohol or drugs. vibrates abnormally, STOP the engine, disconnect and secure spark plug wire. Inspect the mower for any damage and repair the damage.

2

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

OPERATION

6. Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Tall grass can

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

4. Keep all bolts, especially blade bolts, nuts and hide obstacles. screws properly tight. Check that all cotter pins are in proper position. embankments. Operator could lose footing or balance.

8. DO NOT mow on wet grass Always be sure of your footing; keep a firm hold on the handle and walk; never run. Slipping could cause injury.

STOP blade and engine whenever you leave the operating position behind the handle for any reason, including clearing grass, emptying grass bag and making wheel height adjustments, repairs, or inspections.

9. Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting make certain blade and all moving parts have

STOPPED. Disconnect and secure spark plug wire away from plug to prevent accidental starting.

10. STOP engine and wait until the blade comes to complete STOP before removing grass bag and/or clearing grass.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

1. Never store machine or fuel container inside where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot light such as in a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliance. Allow engine to cool before storing machine in an enclosure. Store fuel container out of reach of children in a well ventilated, unoccupied building.

2. Keep mower and engine free of grass, leaves or excess grease to reduce fire hazard and engine overheating.

3. When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an approved container outdoors and away from open flame. when engine is stopped. Removed spark plug wire from spark plug and secure wire away from spark plug to prevent accidental starting. settings or overspeed engine.

7. Check grass bag assembly frequently for wear or deterioration to avoid thrown objects and exposure to moving parts. Replace with new bag if loose seams or tears are evident. Replace slider or bag adapter if broken or cracked.

8. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blades or wear heavy leather gloves and use

CAUTION when handling them.

9. NEVER test for spark by grounding spark plug next to spark plug hole; spark plug could ignite gas exiting engine.

SNAPPER dealer at least once a year and have the dealer install any new safety devices.

11. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts to assure that original standards are maintained.

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS................................................ 2-3

TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................ 4

DEALER SET-UP AND CHECKLIST ..................................................... 5-6

SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION.............................................................. 8

SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS....................................... 9-12

Starting & Stopping Engine & Blades ................................................................. 9-11

Recycling Cover Installation/Removal ................................................................... 12

SECTION 3 - MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS................................ 13-14

Checking Mower Blade ............................................................................................ 13

Annually (End of Each Season) .............................................................................. 14

Engine................................................................................................................... 14

SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR ......................................... 15

Mower Blade Repair/Replacement.......................................................................... 15

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................ 16

SERVICE SCHEDULE ............................................................................ 17

WARRANTY ............................................................................................ 18

PRIMARY MANTENANCE ................................................................. 19-22

4

DEALER SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS for SNAPPER

20” STEEL DECK WALK BEHIND MOWERS

This SNAPPER Walk Behind Mower uses a handle engine control bail system to kill the engine for the SAFETY of the operator. These mowers are designed for quick set-up. The checklist on Page 6 should be filled out by the dealer as the items are checked off and/or performed and the Consumer/Operator Product Registration card filled out and sent to the Customer Service department at SNAPPER when completed. CAUTION: Cutting blades are extremely sharp. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or working with blades. Be careful to avoid cutting yourself on sharp edges of blade.

PUSH MODELS

STEP 1: Remove machine from shipping carton. Machine is shipped in carton with handles folded Remove and discard cardboard from between all handles. Raise upper handle until it is in line and seats into lower brackets.

Securely tighten handle T-Knobs on both sides. See

Figure 1.

LOWER HANDLE

LOOSEN TWO

NUTS

RAISE

HANDLE

BAR

T-KNOBS

LOWER

BRACKETS

FIGURE 2

FIGURE 1

IMPORTANT: DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or spark plug down, oil from crank case will saturate the air filter and cause the engine to hard start or not start at all.

If contamination does occur the air filter will have to be replaced.

STEP 2: Tip mower back against the upper handle to gain access to cutting blade. Remove foam shipping block from cutting blade. This must be removed before starting the engine.

STEP 3: Handle height is adjustable for different height of operators. Loosen the two nuts on the inside of each of the lower handles. See Figure 2. Move the handle up or down to the desired height. Retighten all nuts securely after adjustment.

STEP 4: Pull blade control against upper handle, pull rope start handle and loop into rope guide. See Figure 3.

5

T-HANDLE

HANDLE

ROPE GUIDE

STARTER

ROPE

FIGURE 3

STEP 5: Set-up is now complete for push models

Proceed to checklist found on page 6 of this instruction to prepare mower for use.

DEALER CHECKLIST for SNAPPER

20” STEEL DECK WALK BEHIND MOWERS

T h e f o l l o w i n g m u s t b e a c h i e v e d u p o n t h e p u r c h a s e o f t h e m o w e r . I t i s v e r y i m p o r t a n t t h a t t h e D e a l e r p e r f o r m s a n d a c c o m p l i s h e s t h e s e t - u p a n d t h e o p e r a t i o n a l t e s t s a s l i s t e d b e l o w .

SET-UP (Details on Page 5 of this Instruction)

_____ FOAM SHIPPING BLOCK removed from cutting blade.

_____ UPPER HANDLE & LOWER HANDLE secured in place and hardware tightened securely.

_____ SIDE CHUTE, RECYCLING COVER or GRASS BAG installed on mower.

_____ BLADE retaining bolt(s) checked and tighten securely.

LUBRICATION

_____ ENGINE OIL added to bring level up to full mark on 4-cycle engines (Refer to Engine Manual).

OPERATIONAL TEST

_____ ENGINE started, engine control settings checked and adjusted as needed.

CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) COMPLIANCE TEST

_____ BLADE CONTROL stops engine when released.

DEALER’S RECORDS & FINAL CHECK

_____ PERSONALLY HANDED Operator’s Manual & Mower Safety Booklet to purchaser.

_____ INSTRUCTED purchaser to read and follow instructions in Operator’s Manual.

_____ DEMONSTRATED proper starting procedure and operation of mower to purchaser.

_____ INSTRUCTED purchaser how to service air cleaner, maintain oil level (4-cycle).

_____ ASSISTED purchaser in completing Product Registration Card.

CONSUMER/OPERATOR PRODUCT REGISTRATION CARD

Purchase Date ___________________ Model _______________________ Serial No. ________________________

Retailers Name ___________________________________ Signature _____________________________________

Address _____________________________________ City ____________________ State _______ Zip _______

MOWER WILL BE USED COMMERCIALLY? _______ YES _____ NO

Purchaser’s Name _________________________________ Signature ____________________________________

Address ____________________________________ City _____________________ State _______ Zip _______

IMPORTANT: This form is to be retained by the Dealer for future reference regarding Warranty, proof of purchase, traceability for product recall or service, etc. Complete the Product Registration Card and Mail to

Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, P.O. BOX 1379, McDonough, Georgia, 30253.

6

NOTE: This page is left blank so dealer can remove page 5 for future reference regarding Warranty, proof of purchase, traceability for product recall or service, etc.

7

Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION

ROPE START

T-HANDLE

UPPER

HANDLE

T-KNOB

LOWER

BRACKET

OIL FILL CAP

& DIPSTICK

SWITCH

BOX

RECYCLING

COVER

COVER

KNOBS

BLADE

CONTROL

BLADE

CONTROL

CABLE

T-KNOB

FUEL FILLER CAP

ENGINE

MOWER

DECK

FIGURE 1.1

1.1 INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepared for the operators of the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND MOWERS. Its purpose, aside from recommending operating and routine service requirements, is to promote safety through the use of accepted operating practices.

Read, Understand and Follow the “IMPORTANT

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” on Pages 2 & 3 of this manual and all safety messages on the mower and attachments before operating the mower.

1.2 NOMENCLATURE

The nomenclature drawing above, Figure 1.1, shows the essential parts of the SNAPPER WALK BEHIND

MOWERS. It is recommended that all operators of the mower become thoroughly familiar with the controls, parts and operation of the mower before operating. Specific details involving the engine are found in the separate engine owner’s manual. Study these manuals before operating and keep both handy for future reference.

8

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.1 PRE-START CHECK LIST

Make the following checks and perform the service required before each start-up.

2.1.1. Check guards, deflectors, grass bag, adapter and covers to make sure all are in place and securely tightened.

2.1.2. Check blade control to insure it works freely.

See Figure 2.1.

BLADE CONTROL

SHOWN IN “OFF”

POSITION

2.1.5. Add fuel to tank after pushing the mower outside where fumes can safely dissipate. Make sure cap is tightened after refueling. Refer to Engine

Owners Manual for specifications.

2.1.6. Clean exterior surfaces of cutting deck and engine of any accumulation of spilled fuel, dirt, grass, oil, etc. Keep engine air intake screen and cooling fins clear at all times.

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.1. ENGINE & BLADE

(Recoil Start)

1. Move engine speed control (Located on the side of the engine) to the “FAST” rabbit position.

2. Push primer button three times to start a cold engine. NOTE: Do not use primer button to start warm engine. See Figure 2.3.

IMPORTANT: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the blade control.

TURTLE

RABBIT

FIGURE 2.1

2.1.3. Check cutting height. Adjust to desired height.

2.1.4. Check engine oil and add oil as needed to bring level up to the full mark. Refer to Engine Owner’s

Manual for oil specifications. See Figure 2.2.

PRIMER

BUTTON

MOVE TO FAST

(RABBIT) POSITION

DIPSTICK

MAXIMUM OIL

LEVEL

MINIMUM

OIL LEVEL

FIGURE 2.2

9

PUSH BUTTON

THREE TIMES

ENGINE SPEED

CONTROL

FIGURE 2.3

3. Pull blade control against handle.

4. Pull rope start handle to crank engine.

5. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until engine runs smooth.

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.2. ENGINE & BLADE

(120 Volt Electric Start)

WARNING

To avoid electrical shock or injury, make sure power cord is away from cutting blade before attempting to start engine.

WARNING

The 120 volt electric start models are supplied with a 10 foot three-wire power cord. The plug is designed to operate on 120 volt AC household current. It must be properly grounded at ALL times to avoid the possibility of electric shock, which may cause injury to the operator. Follow ALL instructions carefully as set forth below. Determine that your house wiring system is a three-wire grounded system. Ask a licensed electrician if you are not sure. If your house wiring system is not a three-wire grounded system, DO NOT use this electric start mower under any condition. If your system is grounded and a three-hole receptacle is

NOT available, one should be installed by a licensed electrician.

TURTLE

MOVE TO FAST

RABBIT

(RABBIT) POSITION

ENGINE

SPEED

IMPORTANT: If using a power cord other than the one supplied with machine, then use a power cord that is heavy enough to carry the correct amount of current to the mower.

See chart, (OPTIONAL POWER CORDS) for correct size to use depending on cord length and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge cord.

CONTROL

FIGURE 2.4

OPTIONAL POWER CORDS

MINIMUM GAUGE FOR CORD SETS

120 Volt Total Length of Cord in Feet

PUSH BUTTON

TO START

ENGINE

SWITCH

BOX Rating - Amps

More

Than

Not More

Than

25 ft. 50 ft. 100 ft. 150 ft.

American Wire Gauge

1. Move engine speed control (Located on the side of the engine) to the “FAST” rabbit position. See

Figure 2.4.

NOTE: DO NOT use primer when using the electric starter.

DO NOT use primer to restart a warm engine.

IMPORTANT: Stop the engine (and blade) by releasing the blade control.

2. Connect power cord to the handle mounted switch box. See Figure 2.5.

3. Plug opposite end of power cord into a three hole grounded 120 Volt, AC receptacle.

10

PULL BLADE

CONTROL BACK

AGAINST HANDLE

ELECTRIC

POWER CORD

FIGURE 2.5

(Starting procedure is continued on next page)

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.2 STARTING & OPERATION

2.2.2. ENGINE & BLADE

(120 Volt Electric Start)

WARNING

Before attempting any adjustments to the cutting height,

STOP the engine, remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug and secure wire away from plug. DO NOT make 4. Stand in operator’s position. Move blade control against handle and hold in place. See Figure 2.5. any adjustments with engine or blade running. Be extremely careful when performing adjustments around engine. Engine is extremely hot and can cause severe

WARNING

To avoid electrical shock or injury, make sure power cord is away from cutting blade before attempting to start engine. burns. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or working around cutting blades. Blades are extremely sharp and can cause severe injury.

5. Depress starter button on switch box until engine

2.4 HANDLE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

The height of the mower handle can be adjusted as follows: starts. See Figure 2.5. NOTE: If after 5 seconds of cranking the engine and it does not start, release the starter button. Attempt starting again after waiting for approximately 20 seconds.

1. Loosen the lower nuts on each lower handle as shown in Figure 2.7.

2. Move upper mower handle up or down until the desired position is achieved.

6. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until engine runs smooth. If engine fails to start, check the power cord. Be sure it is inserted securely into the AC receptacle and into the switch box.

3. Tighten the lower nuts on each lower handle to maintain desired position.

2.3 STOPPING

Stop engine and blade by releasing the blade control. See Figure 2.6.

LOWER HANDLE

LOOSEN TWO

NUTS

BLADE CONTROL

SHOWN IN “OFF”

POSITION

FIGURE 2.6

11

FIGURE 2.7

Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING

Before attempting any adjustments to the cutting height,

STOP the engine, remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug and secure wire away from plug. DO NOT make any adjustments with engine or blade running. Be extremely careful when performing adjustments around engine. Engine is extremely hot and can cause severe

3. Move ground speed control to slowest speed setting.

4. Proceed mowing slowly. If grass is very dense, lower each rear wheel latch one notch lower than the front wheel latches to improve recycling performance. burns. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or working around cutting blades. Blades are extremely sharp and can cause severe injury.

(REMOVAL/INSTALLATION)

1. REMOVAL: The recycling cover is secured in place with two knobs. To remove the cover, unscrew the two knobs and lift off the cover. See Figure 2.9.

2. INSTALLATION: When reinstalling the cover, the deck sidewall should fit between the tab and outside of cover. Tighten knobs securely. See

Figure 2.10.

2.5 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

1. FRONT WHEELS: Reposition the front axle by raising the front wheels off the ground, then pull in the spring loaded bushings until they clear the brackets.

Move bushings to the desired height of cut position and release the bushings. See Figure 2.8.

2. REAR WHEELS: Reposition the rear axle by raising the rear wheels off the ground, then pull in the spring loaded bushings until they clear the brackets. Move bushings to the desired height of cut position and release the bushings. Position the rear bushings in to the same notches corresponding with notches for the front wheels to maintain the level of the deck. See Figure 2.8.

NOTE: There are four cutting height adjustment notches on each wheel. The top notch is the lowest cutting height and the lowest notch is the highest.

LOWEST

POSITION

AXLE

BUSHING

RECYCLING

COVER

FIGURE 2.9

SILHOUETTE

OF CUTTING

DECK

REMOVE BOTH KNOBS

BY TURNING

COUNTER-CLOCKWISE

FRONT

WHEEL

TURN KNOBS

CLOCKWISE

WHEN

REINSTALLING

CARRIAGE BOLT & NUT

(USED WITH SIDE

DISCHARGE CHUTE

ONLY!)

DECK SIDE

WALL

HIGHEST

POSITION

FIGURE 2.8

NOTE: For best recycling results, cut up to a maximum of 1/3 of grass blade length and recycle ONLY when grass is dry.

1. Set all wheels in the highest cutting position (Notch

4).

2. Move engine speed control to “FAST” (Rabbit) position.

12

RECYCLING

COVER

TAB (SHOWS VIEW FROM

UNDERNEATH RECYCLING COVER)

FIGURE 2.10

Section 3 - MAINTENANCE

3.1 INTRODUCTION

To retain the quality of the mower, use genuine

SNAPPER replacement parts only. Contact a local

SNAPPER dealer for parts and service assistance.

For the correct part or information for a particular mower, always mention model and serial number.

3.2 SERVICE - AFTER FIRST 5 HOURS

3.2.1. CHANGE ENGINE OIL

WARNING

Before attempting any adjustments or repairs, STOP the engine, remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug and secure wire away from plug. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or working around cutting blades. Blades are extremely sharp and can cause severe injury. Engine oil is extremely hot and can cause severe burns. Allow engine oil to cool before draining to prevent injury.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure end away from plug. The items needed to perform oil change are: cloth rags, (1) 3/8” drive ratchet with a short extension and (1) shallow pan.

2. Tilt mower up on its rear wheels for access to the oil drain plug located underneath the mower deck. Do not tilt mower with spark plug or carburetor down. See Figure 3.1.

5. Lower the mower down and place the piece of wood under left rear wheel. Reach under mower and remove drain plug and allow oil to drain out completely in pan. Some oil may spill onto hands, immediately wipe hands clean with cloth rags.

6. Tilt mower back up and replace drain plug.

Tighten securely but do not over tighten.

7. Fill engine with oil as specified in Engine

Owner’s Manual. Thereafter, change oil after each

25 hours of use.

IMPORTANT: DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or spark plug down, oil from crank case will saturate the air filter and cause the engine to hard start or not start at all.

If contamination does occur the air filter will have to be replaced.

3.2.2 CHECK MOWER BLADE

1. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure end away from plug.

2. Tilt mower up on its rear wheels for access to the blade cap screw. Do not tilt mower with spark plug or carburetor down. See Figure 3.2.

3. Check torque of blade retaining cap screw.

Recommended torque should be 30 to 40 ft. lbs.

See Figure 3.2.

4. Check blade for sharpness, wear and damage. See

Section on Blade Wear Limits.

BLADE

HUB

MAKE SURE THAT

BLADE HUB IS

SEATED

BETWEEN

FLANGES

FLANGE

REMOVE OIL

PLUG

FIGURE 3.1

3. Place shallow pan underneath the approximate center of the oil drain plug.

4. Loosen with ratchet and short extension, but do not remove oil drain plug. Loosen plug until you can turn it with your fingers.

13

BLADE

CONE WASHER

(Widest Part Up)

CAPSCREW TORQUE

30-40 FT. LBS.

FIGURE 3.2

Section 3 - MAINTENANCE

3.3 ANNUALLY (END OF EACH SEASON)

Perform all maintenance as described in the maintenance schedule.

3.3.1. Engine

Service engine according to engine owner’s manual.

Refer to engine owner’s manual for service instructions.

Refer to engine owner’s manual for service instructions.

Refer to the Engine Owner’s Manual for directions regarding engine storage preparations. Prepare the mower for “end of season” storage as follows:

1. Drain fuel from fuel tank and let engine run until all fuel is out of the carburetor.

2. Disconnect and remove the spark plug wire away from spark plug before any other

preparations are made!

3. Tape all openings closed to prevent spraying water into exhaust or air intakes during washing.

4. Tilt mower up on its rear wheels and thoroughly clean the underside of the deck. Do not tilt mower with spark plug or carburetor down. Scrape away any accumulation of grass with a putty knife and or wire brush.

5. Lubricate all exposed metal with a light coating of oil to prevent corrosion.

6. Loosen handle knobs. Carefully fold the handles forward, “flexing” the control cables to prevent cable damage.

7. Store the mower in a shed or other dry area, protected from weather.

14

Section 4 - ADJUSTMENTS & REPAIR

WARNING

Before attempting any adjustments or repairs, STOP the engine, remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug and secure wire away from plug. Be extremely careful when performing adjustments around engine. Engine is extremely hot and can cause severe burns. Wear heavy leather gloves when handling or working around cutting blades. Blades are extremely sharp and can cause severe injury.

4.1 MOWER BLADE REPAIR/REPLACEMENT

4.1.1. STANDARD BLADE WEAR LIMIT

1. Inspect blade frequently for signs of excessive wear or damage. See Figure 4.1.

NEW BLADE

BLADE

HUB

FLANGE

BLADE

MAKE SURE THAT

BLADE HUB IS

SEATED

BETWEEN

FLANGES

CONE WASHER

(Widest Part Up)

CAPSCREW

FIGURE 4.2

WEAR LIMIT

(NOTCH STARTS)

DANGEROUS CONDITION !

DO NOT USE ON MOWER !

REPLACE WITH NEW BLADE.

FIGURE 4.1

WARNING

Never use a cutting blade that shows signs of excessive wear or damage. Refer to Section on

MOWER BLADE REPAIR/REPLACEMENT for proper blade inspection and service procedures.

4.1.2. BLADE SHARPENING

1. Disconnect spark plug wire and secure end away from plug.

IMPORTANT: DO NOT tip machine with carburetor or spark plug down, oil from crank case will saturate the air filter and cause the engine to hard start or not start at all. If contamination does occur the air filter will have to be replaced.

2. Tilt mower up on its rear wheels.

3. Remove blade. See Figure 4.2.

4. Sharpen blade on a grinding wheel at an angle of 22 to 28 degrees. DO NOT sharpen blade beyond the original cutting edge. See Figure 4.3.

15

NOTE: DO NOT

SHARPEN BEYOND

ORIGINAL

CUTTING EDGE.

22-28º

ORIGINAL CUTTING EDGE

BLADE TIP

END VIEW

OF BLADE

FIGURE 4.3

5. Check blade for balance. If necessary, correct balance by grinding heavy end of blade.

6. Reinstall blade. Refer to Figure 3.2. Check torque of blade retaining cap screw. Recommended torque should be 30 to 40 ft. lbs.

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE CORRECTIVE ACTION

Engine Will Not Start

Using Recoil Starter

Engine Will Not Start

Using Electric Starter

Engine Stalls or Stops

After Running

Engine Loses Power

Excessive Vibration

Cutting Grass

Improperly

Poor Grass Discharge

Oil Leaking

1. Fuel tank empty.

2. Engine needs priming.

3. Spark plug wire disconnected.

4. Spark plug faulty.

1. Fuel tank empty.

2. Engine needs priming.

1. Fill fuel tank with fresh fuel.

2. Push primer three times.

3. Power cord not plugged into switch box or AC outlet. 3. Plug in power cord to switch box & AC outlet.

4. Power cord damaged or severed. 4. Use new power cord of proper amperage.

5. Spark plug wire disconnected. 5. Place spark plug wire onto spark plug.

1. Blade control is released or is not being held securely against handle.

1. Fill fuel tank with fresh fuel.

2. Push primer three times.

3. Place spark plug wire onto spark plug.

4. Replace with new spark plug.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Fuel tank empty.

Engine air pre-cleaner and or air cleaner dirty.

Spark plug defective or gap set improperly.

Water, debris or stale fuel in fuel system.

1. Blade control should be held securely against handle at all times during operation of mower.

2. Fill with fuel to proper level.

3. Clean free of all debris.

4. Service spark plug.

5. Drain and clean fuel system.

1. Engine air pre-cleaner or air cleaner dirty

2. Spark plug faulty.

3. Water, debris or stale fuel in fuel system.

1. Damaged, out of balance or bent mower blade.

2. Loose blade components.

3. Loose or missing air lift (if equipped).

1.

2.

3.

Clean or replace filters.

Service spark plug.

Drain and clean fuel system.

1. Service mower blade.

2. Service and tighten loose parts.

3. Replace air lifts. Tighten to proper torque.

1. Cutting height too low or high.

2. Engine speed too slow.

3. Forward ground speed too fast.

4. Terraced cut, side to side.

5. Excessive deck pitch, front to rear.

6. Cutting blade dull or damaged.

1. Engine speed too slow.

2. Grass is wet.

3. Excessively worn or damaged blade.

4. Build up of grass clippings and debris under deck.

5. Improper blade installed on deck.

6. Blade installed improperly on deck.

1. Adjust cutting height.

2. Move engine speed control to “FAST” position.

3. Move ground speed control to a slower speed.

4. Adjust height of cut with height adjust bushings.

5. Adjust height of cut with height adjust bushings.

6. Sharpen cutting edges or replace blade.

1. Move engine speed control to “FAST” position.

2. Mow when grass is dry.

3. Service mower blade.

4. Clean deck.

5. Install proper SNAPPER blade.

6. Install blade properly.

1. Leaking engine case. 1. Contact authorized SNAPPER dealer.

2. Check and tighten drain plug.

3. Make sure dipstick or oil filler cap is securely in place.

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SERVICE SCHEDULE

ITEM

Engine Oil

SERVICE PERFORMED

Check Oil Level

Initial Oil Change

Periodic Oil Change

Page 9

Page 9

Page 13

USE HRS

25

HRS

50

HRS

100

HRS

EACH

SEASON

X

X

X*

Air Pre-Cleaner Clean Sponge Element Engine Manual

& Page 14.

Air Cleaner Clean or Replace Engine Manual.

Spark Plug

X**

X**

Engine Cooling

System

Clean Shroud & Fins

Mower Blade Check For Wear, Damage

& Replacement

Mower Deck Clean Debris

Accumulation

Engine Manual

Page 15

Page 14

* Change oil every 25 hours when operating under heavy load or high temperatures.

**Clean more often under dusty conditions or when air debris is present

X**

X

X

MAINTENANCE PARTS

Blade Control Cable

Cutter Blade (Mulching)

Parts Manual for 20” Steel Deck Walk Behind Mower Series 13

3-5493

1-7167

06058

17

3 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

For three (3) years from purchase date for the original purchaser's residential, non-commercial use, SNAPPER, through any authorized SNAPPER dealer will replace, free of charge (except for taxes where applicable), any part or parts found upon examination by the factory at McDonough, Georgia, to be defective in material or workmanship or both.

For ninety (90) days from purchase date for the original purchaser's commercial, rental, or other non-residential use,

SNAPPER, through any authorized SNAPPER dealer will replace, free of charge, any part or parts found upon examination by the factory at McDonough, Georgia, to be defective in material or workmanship or both.

All transportation costs incurred by the purchaser in submitting material to an authorized SNAPPER dealer for replacement under this warranty must be paid by the purchaser.

This warranty does not apply to engines and their components, and batteries, as these items are warranted separately.

This warranty does not apply to parts that have been damaged by accident, alteration, abuse, improper lubrication, normal wear, or other cause beyond the control of SNAPPER. This warranty does not cover any machine or component part that has been altered or modified changing safety, performance, or durability.

Batteries have a one (1) year prorated warranty period with free replacement if required during the first ninety (90) days from the original purchase date. SNAPPER will not be responsible for any installation cost incurred. The battery warranty only covers original equipment batteries and does not cover damage to the battery or machine caused by neglect or abuse, destruction by fire, explosion, freezing, overcharging, improper maintenance, or use of improper electrolyte.

There is no other express warranty.

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY

Implied warranties, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to three

(3) years from purchase date for the original purchaser's residential or other non-commercial use, and ninety

(90) days from purchase for the original purchaser's commercial, rental or other non-residential use, and to the extent permitted by law, any and all implied warranties are excluded. This is the exclusive remedy. Liabilities for consequential damages, under any and all warranties are excluded.

Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

WARNING: THE USE OF REPLACEMENT PARTS OTHER THAN GENUINE SNAPPER PARTS MAY IMPAIR THE

SAFETY OF SNAPPER PRODUCTS AND WILL VOID ANY LIABILITY AND WARRANTY BY SNAPPER

ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF SUCH PARTS.

IMPORTANT: Please fill out the attached SNAPPER Product Registration Card immediately and mail to:

Snapper’s Product Registration Center, P.O. Box 1379, McDonough, Georgia 30253

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PRIMARY MAINTENANCE

An illustration of how dirt can damage your engine & how reasonable maintenance can protect it!

Snapper uses the best available engines and components in their products in order to provide long, satisfactory service. However, proper care is essential in prolonging engine life. Dirt is your engine’s enemy number 1!

The engine on your Snapper product spends its entire life operating close to the ground at high speed creating a virtual storm of dust and dirt!

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PRIMARY MAINTENANCE

Knowing the dirt will quickly ruin an engine, manufacturers equip their engine with extremely efficient air cleaners to filter out the harmful dirt.

The engine must gulp about 12,000 gallons of air for every gallon of fuel used. Because of its working environment, the air available to your

Snapper engine is heavily saturated with airborne dirt particles.

As the dirt particles are stopped, they build up and begin to clog the outside of the air filter.

This reduces the amount of air available to the engine and causes an over-rich fuel mixture which results in the following adverse effects:

An improperly serviced, dirt clogged air cleaner will:

7.

8.

9.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

10.

Increase fuel consumption.

Cause power loss.

Result in hard starting.

Create smoke from unburned fuel.

Produce carbon build-up internally.

Foul spark plug electrodes.

Score cylinder walls.

Burn valves.

Wear out the engine pre-maturely.

COST YOU MONEY!

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Damage caused by a poorly serviced air cleaner is not covered under the engine warranties. So, save yourself unnecessary expenses and undue aggravation by keeping the air cleaner properly serviced at the intervals specified in the engine owner’s manual.

It doesn’t take long to service an air cleaner.

Follow the specific instructions in the engine owner’s manual for the type filter used.

Prevent dirt from falling into the carburetor intake when servicing your air cleaner. Make sure components are installed in correct sequence after servicing to prevent unfiltered air from entering the engine. Some servicing hints on several common types are:

PRIMARY MAINTENANCE

Generally, wash foam-type filters in a dishwashing detergent and water solution. Rinse and wring dry, then saturate with oil and squeeze out excess. Failure to re-oil this type

filter will ruin the engine.

Clean paper elements by tapping lightly. Blowing with air will rupture paper elements.

Use a flashlight to detect clogged or torn paper elements – replace if damaged in any way.

Dirt can also be introduced into an engine in dirty fuel from a contaminated container.

Always use clean fresh fuel from a clean container to guard against dirt, sludge and water contamination.

Air is also needed to keep your engine cool. Dirt, dust & debris build up restricts and clogs cooling air intake screens and fins. Clean screens and fins at frequent intervals. The engine blower housing and shrouds should be removed at least once each season or more often under dry, dusty conditions for a thorough cleaning of fins.

Failure to keep external surfaces clean not only presents fire hazards, but causes overheating and resulting engine damages such as: guides. cylinder walls.

4. Over-speeding.

5. Loss of power. of engine.

Be aware that fuel breaks down in storage and forms gummy compounds which will block carburetor passages.

Never use fuel more than 3 months old.

Drain tank then run the engine out of fuel before storing during the off-season.

An engine must also have proper lubrication. All engines use some oil. On 4-cycle engine,

CHECK OIL LEVEL BEFORE EACH START-UP.

Wipe area clean around the oil check plug or dipstick opening to keep dirt from falling into the engine when checking the oil. Always check with the machine on a level surface. On engines with dipstick, keep the level up to, but not over, the FULL mark. When adding oil, allow time for all of the oil to flow down the fill tube to prevent a false full reading when the level could actually be low and result in engine damage.

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On 4-cycle engines with an oil level plug, don’t be fooled onto thinking the engine has sufficient lubricating oil if you can see “some” oil in the opening – the level should always be brought up to the point of overflowing at the top of the fill hole.

PRIMARY MAINTENANCE

On 2-cycle engines, lubrication must be provided by an exact mixture of gasoline and 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil. A 2-cycle engine that is mistakenly run on straight gasoline will be ruined in less than 5 minutes! If you keep straight gasoline in addition to pre-mixed 2-cycle engine fuel, be sure the containers are clearly marked to avoid mix-up.

Snapper 2-cycle engines require a 32 to 1 mixture of gasoline and BIA certified TC-W oil such as Snapper’s 2-cycle engine oil.

Many of the 2-cycle engine oils on the market today make fantastic claims, but for the best performance and long engine life, always use Snapper 2-cycle oil. Pre-mix the fuel and always shake the container before filling the tank.

Change oil at regular intervals using a high quality oil such as Snapper’s small engine formulated 4-cycle engine oil. Refer to the engine owner’s manual for oil details.

1. Engine Oil

2. Air Cleaner

3. Fuel Tank

To full level (4-cycle).

Properly mixed with gas

(2- cycle).

Clean and properly serviced.

Full fresh clean gasoline.

Fuel valve open.

Cap vent open.

Inline filter clean.

4. Choke

5. Primer (on Used properly.

6. Safety Interlock In proper position.

Switches All wires properly connected.

7. Switch & Blade Switch On.

Control Blade control properly

8. Spark Plug positioned on walk mower.

Wire connected.

9. Throttle Control Start Position.

10. Blade Properly installed and

torqued.

Sharpened.

11. Muffler

Grass & leaves cleaned away.

Read and follow all safety instructions in safety booklets and manuals.

Keep in mind that dirt is your engine’s

enemy #1 both internally and externally!

Internally, dirt will quickly ruin an engine and externally it will cause overheating and resulting internal damages. Damage caused by improper lubrication, poor air cleaner service or overheating due to dirt cannot be covered under warranty.

It only takes a few moments to service the engine

(and equipment) on a routine basis but the rewards will be a quick starting, responsive engine that will provide long satisfactory service with minimum maintenance cost. The pre-start checklist in the next column and instructions in your Snapper Operator’s

Manual are designated to help you keep your Snapper in top operating condition with minimum effort!

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SERVICE NOTES

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SERVICE NOTES

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Safety Instructions & Operator’s Manual for

20” STEEL DECK

WALK BEHIND MOWERS

SERIES 13

WARNING:

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

COPYRIGHT © 1999

SNAPPER INC.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

MANUAL No. 7-2036 .(REV. 1, 5/17/99)

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