TS138

EN Operator's manual 2-37

 Contents
Introduction............................................................... 2 Transportation, storage and disposal......................35
Safety........................................................................5 Storage................................................................... 35
Assembly................................................................ 10 Disposal.................................................................. 36
Operation................................................................ 14 Technical data.........................................................36
Maintenance........................................................... 19 Service.................................................................... 37
Troubleshooting...................................................... 30 Appendix ................................................................ 38

Introduction
Pre-delivery inspection and product copy of the pre-delivery inspection document from
your dealer.
numbers
Note: A pre-delivery inspection has been done of
this product. Make sure that you receive a signed

Service agent contact infor-

mation:

This operator’s manual belongs to product with product number / serial number:

Engine:

Transmission:

Product description To use the product differently is incorrect use. It will

void your warranty and reject the responsibility for
This is a lawn tractor with the cutting deck installed damage to the user of third parties on the part of the
between the front and rear axles. It has a 4-stroke manufacturer.
engine that uses gasoline.
Refer to local directives for the operation of lawn
Optional accessories: mowers.
• Grass catcher
Support / Help
• Mulch plug
If you require assistance or have questions
Intended use concerning the application, operation, maintenance
or parts for your product:
This product is only used to cut grass in private
gardens and on private garden slopes with not more • Visit our website: www.husqvarna.com
than 15° slope. It is not to be used in public parks, • Call Us Toll Free: 1-800-487-5951
sports grounds, in farming or in forestry. Only use
the product with accessories that are approved by
the manufacturer.

2 1966 - 001 -
Product overview

1 3
2 4

7
8

10 5 9

11

1. Light switch
2. Throttle control CAUTION: Incorrect use can result in
3. Hour meter damage to the product or personal
4. Attachment clutch control property.
5. Ignition switch
6. Parking brake lever Read the operator's manual carefully
and make sure that you understand
7. Brake pedal
the instructions before you use this
8. Forward drive pedal product.
9. Reverse drive pedal
10. Attachment lift lever
11. Freewheel lever

Symbols on the product Reverse.

Warning! Be careful and use the

product correctly. This product can
cause serious injury or death to the
operator or others.
Neutral.

1966 - 001 - 3
 High. Parking brake disengaged.

Low. Cutting height.

Cutting deck lift.

Start position for cold weather.

Fast. Reverse operation system (ROS).

Slow.

Reverse.

Choke.

Forward.

Ignition switch.

Lights on.

Engine off.

Fuel.

Engine start. Oil pressure.

Battery.
Engine on.

Ear protection recommended.

Brake and clutch pedal.

The blades are disengaged.

P
Parking brake.

The blades are engaged.

Parking brake engaged.

4 1966 - 001 -
 Drawbar load.
Risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Beware of thrown objects.

Keep bystanders away.

The fire symbol shows a risk, which, if

not obeyed, can cause death, serious
injury and/or damage.
Freewheel (automatic models only).

Hour meter
Sound power level. The hour meter shows how many hours the engine
has been in operation. Refer to Product overview on
page 3 for the position of the hour meter.
Keep hands and feet Each 50 hours an oil level symbol will show for 2
away from this area. hours. Refer to Lubrication schedule on page 20.
To manually reset the hour meter, turn the ignition
key to the on position and then to the "STOP"
Do not operate the prod- position 5 times.
uct on slopes that are
more than 15°. Note: The hour meter only stops when the ignition
key is in the "STOP" position. Make sure that the
ignition key stays in the "STOP" position when the
Hot surfaces. Do not engine has stopped.
touch.

Product liability
The deflector shield on
As referred to in the product liability laws, we are not
the cutting deck must be
liable for damages that our product causes if:
installed when you oper-
ate the product. • the product is incorrectly repaired.
• the product is repaired with parts that are not
The grass catcher must from the manufacturer or not approved by the
be installed when you manufacturer.
operate the product. • the product has an accessory that is not
from the manufacturer or not approved by the
manufacturer.
Hand entanglement. • the product is not repaired at an approved
service center or by an approved authority.

Safety
Safety definitions WARNING: Used if there is a
Warnings, cautions and notes are used to point out risk of injury or death for the operator
specially important parts of the manual. or bystanders if the instructions in the
manual are not obeyed.

1966 - 001 - 5
 CAUTION: Used if there is a risk of WARNING: CHILDREN CAN BE
damage to the product, other materials SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED BY
or the adjacent area if the instructions in THIS EQUIPMENT. Carefully read and
the manual are not obeyed. follow all the safety instructions below.

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not

Note: Used to give more information that is alert to the presence of children. Children are often
necessary in a given situation. attracted to the machine and the mowing activity.
Never assume that children will remain where you
Safe Operation Practices for Ride- last saw them.

On Mowers • Keep children out of the mowing area and in the

watchful care of a responsible adult other than
the operator.
WARNING: This product is capable
of amputating hands and feet and • Be alert and turn machine off if a children enters
throwing objects. Failure to observe the the area.
following safety instructions could result • Before and while backing, look behind and down
in serious injury or death. for small children.
• Never carry children, even with the blades shut
off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or
WARNING: In order to prevent interfere with safe machine operation. Children
accidental starting when setting up, who have been given rides in the past may
transporting, adjusting pr making repairs, suddenly appear in the mowing area for another
always disconnect spark plug wire and ride and be run over or backed over by the
place wire where it cannot contact spark machine.
plug. • Never allow children to operate the machine.
• Use extreme caution when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
WARNING: Do not coast down a block your view of a child.
hill in neutral, you may lose control of the
tractor. II. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on
the machine and in the manual before starting.
WARNING: Tow only attachments
that are recommended by and comply • Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or
with specifications of the manufacturer under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge
of your tractor. Use common sense opening at all times.
when towing. Operate only at the lowest • Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar
possible speed when on a slope. Too with the instructions, to operate the machine.
heavy of a load, while on a slope, is • Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys,
dangerous. Tires can lose traction with wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown
the ground and cause you to lose control by the blades.
of your tractor. • Ensure the area is clear bystanders before
operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the
area.
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some • Never carry passengers.
of its constituents, and certain vehicle
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
components contain or emit chemicals
necessary. Always look down and behind before
known to the State of California to
and while backing.
cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm. • Never direct discharged material toward anyone.
Avoid discharging material against a wall or
obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward
I. CHILDREN
operator. Stop the blades when crossing gravel
surfaces.
WARNING: CHILDREN CAN BE • Do not operate machine without the entire grass
INJURED BY THIS EQUIPMENT.
catcher, discharge chute, or other safety devices
The American Academy of Pediatrics
in place and working.
recommends that children be a minimum
of 12 years of age before operating a • Slow down before turning.
pedestrian controlled lawn mower and • Never leave a running machine unattended.
minimum of 16 years of age before Always turn off blades, set parking blade, and
operating a riding lawn mower. stop engine before dismounting.

6 1966 - 001 -
• Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off • Wear gloves when necessary, for example
engine and wait for all parts to come to complete when you attach, examine or clean the cutting
stop before cleaning the machine, removing the equipment.
grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge chute. • Do not wear loose-fitting clothing, jewelry or
• Operate machine only in daylight or good other items that can get caught in moving parts.
artificial light. • Keep first aid equipment and fire extinguisher
• Do not operate the machine while under the close at hand.
influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
Safety devices on the product
roadways.
• Use extreme caution when loading or unloading WARNING: Read the warning
the machine into a trailer or truck. instructions that follow before you use
the product.
• Always wear eye protection when operating
machine.
• Do not use a product with defective safety
• Use ear protectors to avoid damage to hearing.
devices. Do a check of the safety devices
• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and regularly. If the safety devices are defective,
above, are involved in a large percentage of speak to your Husqvarna service agent.
riding mower-related injuries. These operators
• Do not make modifications on safety devices. Do
should evaluate their ability to operate the riding
not use the product if protective plates, protective
mower safely enough to protect themselves and
covers, safety switches or other protective
others from serious injury.
devices are not attached or are defective.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for
wheel weights or counterweights.
To do a check of the operator presence control
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other (OPC)
debris build-up which can touch hot exhaust/
engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower
deck to plow leaves or other debris which can
WARNING: Do not operate the
cause build-up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel product if the operator presence control
spillage before operating or storing the machine. (OPC) is defective. If the OPC is
Allow machine to cool before storage. defective, repair it immediately. Speak to
an approved service agent.
Safety instructions for operation
• Make sure that the engine cannot start unless
Personal protective equipment the brake pedal is pushed down fully and the
cutting deck is disengaged.
WARNING: Read the warning • Make sure that the engine stops when the
instructions that follow before you use operator goes away from the seat when the
the product. parking brake is disengaged.
• Make sure that the engine stops when the
• Use approved personal protective equipment operator goes away from the seat when the
when you use the product. Personal protective cutting deck is engaged.
equipment cannot fully prevent injury but it • Make sure that the clutch control for the cutting
decreases the degree of injury if an accident deck cannot operate when the operator is away
does occur. Let your dealer help you select the from the seat.
right equipment.
• Always wear approved hearing protection. Long To do a check of the reverse operation system
term exposure to noise can result in permanent (ROS)
hearing impairment.
If the reverse operation system does not operate
• Always wear protective shoes or protective
correctly, repair the product immediately. Speak to
boots. Steel toes are recommended. Do not use
an approved service agent.
the product barefoot.
1. Start the product. Refer to To start the product on
page 14.
2. Engage the cutting deck. Refer to To engage and
disengage the cutting deck on page 17.

1966 - 001 - 7
3. Make sure that the engine stops when you try to
reverse with the ignition key is in the on position WARNING: The muffler becomes
(A). very hot during and after use and when
the engine operates at idle speed. Be
careful near flammable materials and/or
A B fumes to prevent fire.

To do a check of the muffler

• Examine the muffler regularly to make sure that it
is attached correctly and not damaged.

To cut grass on slopes

WARNING: Read the warning

4. Start the product and engage the cutting deck instructions that follow before you use
again. the product.
5. Turn the ignition switch to the ROS on position
(B). • To cut grass on slopes increases the risk that
you can not control the product and that it
6. Make sure that the engine does not stop when overturns. This can cause injury or death. It is
you reverse with the ignition key in the ROS on necessary to cut the grass carefully on all slopes.
position. If you cannot reverse up a slope or if you do not
feel safe, do not cut it.
To do a check of the brake • Remove stones, branches and other obstacles.
• Cut up and down the slope, not from side to side.
WARNING: Brake maintenance is • Do not move down a slope with the cutting deck
necessary if the product uses more than lifted.
5 ft (1.5 m) to stop at the highest
• Do not operate the product on ground that slopes
speed in the highest gear on a level, dry
more than 15°.
surface.

1. Park the product on a level, dry concrete or

paved surface. Push the brake pedal down fully
and engage the parking brake.
2. Set the freewheel control to the “transmission
disengaged” position to disengage the
transmission.
3. The rear wheels must lock and skid when you
try to manually push the product forward. If the >15°
rear wheels rotate, then brake maintenance is
necessary.
4. Speak to an approved service center. • Do not start or stop on a slope.
• Move smoothly and slowly on slopes.
Parking brake • Do not make sudden changes in speed or
direction.
WARNING: If the parking brake • Do not turn more than necessary. Turn slowly
does not work, the product can start to and gradually when you move down a slope.
move and cause injury or damage. Make Move at low speed. Turn the wheel carefully.
sure that the parking brake is regularly • Look out for and do not move across furrows,
examined and adjusted. holes and bumps. There is a higher risk that the
product overturns on ground that is not flat. Long
Refer to To do a check of the brake on page 8. grass can hide obstacles.
• Do not cut grass near edges, ditches or banks.
Muffler The product can suddenly overturn if a wheel
moves across the edge of a steep slope or a
The muffler keeps the noise levels to a minimum and ditch, or if an edge gives way.
sends the exhaust fumes away from the operator.
• Do not mow wet grass. It is slippery, and tires
Do not use the product if the muffler is missing or can lose their grip so that the product skids.
defective. A defective muffler increases the noise
• Do not put your foot on the ground to try to make
level and the risk of fire.
the product more stable.

8 1966 - 001 -
• Move very carefully if an accessory or other Battery safety
object is attached that can make the product less
stable. WARNING: A damaged battery can
Fuel safety cause an explosion and cause injury.
If the battery has a deformation or
is damaged, speak to an approved
WARNING: Read the warning Husqvarna service agent.
instructions that follow before you use
the product.
WARNING: Read the warning
• Fuel is flammable and the fumes are explosive. instructions that follow before you use
Be careful with fuel to prevent injury, fire and the product.
explosion.
• Do not breathe in the fuel fumes. The fuel fumes • Use protective glasses when you are near
are poisonous and can cause injury. Make sure batteries.
that the airflow is sufficient. • Do not wear watches, jewelry or other metal
• Do not remove the fuel tank cap or fill the fuel objects near the battery.
tank when the engine is on. • Keep the battery out of reach for children.
• Let the engine become cool before you refuel. • Charge the battery in a space with good airflow.
• Do not fill fuel in an indoor area. Not sufficient • Keep flammable materials at a minimum
airflow can cause injury or death because of clearance of 1 m when you charge the battery.
asphyxiation or carbon monoxide.
• Discard replaced batteries. See Disposal on
• Do not smoke near the fuel or the engine. page 36.
• Do not put hot objects near the fuel or the • Explosive gases can come from the battery. Do
engine. not smoke near the battery. Keep the battery
• Do not fill fuel near sparks or flames. away from open flames and sparks.
• Before you refuel, open the fuel tank cap slowly
and release the pressure carefully. Transport safety
• Fuel on your skin can cause injury. If you get fuel • Use an approved transport vehicle for
on your skin, use soap and water to remove the transportation of the product.
fuel. • A markets national or local regulations can set
• If you spill fuel on your clothing, change clothing limit to the transportation of the product.
immediately. • The operator of the transport vehicle is
• Do not fill the fuel tank fully. Heat causes the fuel responsible to attach the product safely during
to expand. Keep a space at the top of the fuel transport. Refer to Transportation on page 35.
tank.
• Tighten the fuel tank cap fully. If the fuel tank cap Safety instructions for maintenance
is not tightened, there is a risk of fire.
• Before you start the product, move the product to WARNING: The product is heavy
a minimum of 3 m/10 ft from where you refueled. and can cause injury or damage to
• Do not start the product if there is fuel or engine property or the adjacent area. Do not do
oil on the product. Remove the unwanted fuel maintenance on the engine or the cutting
and engine oil and let the product dry before you deck without these conditions:
start the engine. • The engine is off.
• Examine the engine for leaks regularly. If there • The product is parked on a level
are leaks in the fuel system, do not start the surface.
engine until the leaks are repaired.
• The parking brake is applied.
• Do not use your fingers to examine the engine
• The ignition key is removed.
for leaks.
• The cutting deck is disengaged.
• Keep fuel in approved containers only.
• The ignition cables are removed from
• When the product and fuel is in storage, make
the plugs.
sure that fuel and fuel fumes cannot cause
damage.
• Drain the fuel in an approved container outdoors WARNING: The exhaust fumes
and away from sparks and flames. from the engine contain carbon
monoxide, an odorless, poisonous and
very dangerous gas. Do not run the
product in closed spaces or spaces with
not sufficient air flow.

1966 - 001 - 9
 • Always put the cutting deck in servicing position
WARNING: Read the warning to clean it. Do not park the product near the edge
instructions that follow before you do of a ditch or slope to get access to the cutting
maintenance on the product. deck.

• For best performance and safety, do CAUTION: Read the caution

maintenance on the product regularly as given in instructions that follow before you use
the maintenance schedule. Refer to Maintenance the product.
schedule on page 19.
• Electrical shocks can cause injuries. Do not • Do not turn over the engine if the spark plug or
touch the cables when the engine is on. Do not ignition cable is removed.
do a function test on the ignition system with your
• Make sure that all nuts and bolts are tightened
fingers.
correctly and that the equipment is in good
• Do not start the engine if the protective covers condition.
are removed. There is a high risk of injury
• Do not change the adjustment of governors.
caused by moving or hot parts.
If the engine speed is too high, the product
• Let the product become cool before you do components can become damaged.
maintenance near the engine.
• The product is approved only with the equipment
• The blades are sharp and can cause cuts. Wind supplied or recommended by the manufacturer.
protection around the blades or use protective
gloves when you do work on the blades.

Assembly
Introduction
Slope sheet, 1 pcs
WARNING: Read and understand
the safety chapter before you assemble
the product.

To remove the product from the Hex bolt, 2 pcs

carton
1. Remove loose parts included with the product.
2. Remove the end panels.
Nuts, 2 pcs
3. Remove the side panels and put them on a flat
surface.
4. Remove all package materials.
5. Remove the product from the carton and make
sure no loose parts are left in the carton. Hood scoop, 1 pcs

Assembly tools
• 1/2" (13 mm) wrench
• 7/16" (11 mm) wrenches (2 pieces)
Oil drain extension, 1 pcs
• Tire pressure gauge
• Knife
• Pliers
• Socket wrench set (optional)
Steering wheel, 1 pcs
Loose parts that need assembly
The product is not fully assembled. The parts that
follow are loose when the product is purchased.

Center cover for steering wheel, 1 pcs

Key, 2 pcs

10 1966 - 001 -
 To install the steering wheel
1. Install the steering shaft extension (A) on the
steering shaft (B).
Steering shaft cover, 1 pcs

K
J
F
Hex bolt for the steering wheel, 1 pcs I
A
H
C
G
D
E
Steering wheel adapter, 1 pcs B

Steering shaft extension, 1 pcs

2. Put the top steering bracket (C) onto the

steering shaft extension until it is flat against the
dashboard.
Top steering bracket, 1 pcs 3. Install the 4 screws (D) with a screwdriver but do
not tighten the screws in this step.
4. Tighten the 4 screws with your hand until they
are flat against the top steering bracket.
Screws for top steering bracket, 4 pcs 5. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws 90°
more.

CAUTION: Do not tighten the

screws too much.
Flat washer for steering wheel, 1 pcs
6. Install the shaft cover (E). Make sure that the
guide tabs in the shaft cover are in the correct
positions.
7. Remove the steering wheel adapter (F) from the
Lock washer for steering wheel, 1 pcs steering wheel (G).
8. Put the steering wheel adapter on the steering
shaft extension.
9. Put the steering wheel on the steering shaft
Seat, 1 pcs extension.
10. Make sure that the front wheels and the steering
wheel are aligned forward.
11. Install the large flat washer (H), the lock washer
(I), and the bolt (J). Tighten the bolt fully.
Hex bolt for the seat, 2 pcs
12. Attach the center cover (K) to the steering wheel.
The center cover is attached with snap locks.

To install the seat

Flat washer for seat, 2 pcs 1. Remove, but do not discard, the hardware which
attaches the seat to the cardboard package.
2. Remove and discard the cardboard package.

Note: Do not remove the tape from the

adjustment handle until the seat is correctly
attached to the product.

1966 - 001 - 11
3. Connect the wire connector to the safety switch
(A) on the seat. Note: Make sure that the arrows on the 2
washers point up.

7. Remove the tape from the adjustment lever (I)

and discard the tape.
C 8. Do a check of the operator presence control.
Refer to To do a check of the operator presence
D control (OPC) on page 7.
B
E WARNING: Do no operate the
product if the operator presence
A control is defective.

To install the engine cover piece

4. Put the seat on the seat pan (B) and put the 1. Align the front tab on the engine cover piece with
middle plastic piece (C) into the middle slot the cut-out in the engine cover.
assembly hole (D).
5. Push the seat rearward until the 2 front plastic
pieces (E) are aligned with the front slot
assembly holes. Push down the seat to engage
the plastic pieces in the slots. Push the seat
rearward.

2. Align the rear tabs on the engine cover piece

with the cut-outs in the engine cover.

2
3. Push down the engine cover piece on the engine
cover.
6. Fold the seat forward and install the 2 bolts (F)
and the 2 washers (G).

F G
H

To adjust the seat

1. Sit in the seat.

Note: Make sure that the 2 front plastic pieces

(H) are fully engaged in the seat pan.

12 1966 - 001 -
2. Lift up the seat adjustment lever (A).
WARNING: Risk of sparks. The
red battery cable must be connected
to the positive terminal before the
black battery cable is connected
to the negative terminal. This is
to prevent sparks and accidental
A grounding.

5. Connect the black cable to the negative (-)

terminal and tighten the bolt and nut fully.
6. Apply petroleum jelly on the battery cables to
prevent corrosion.
7. Lower the seat pan or the engine cover.

To move the product off the skid

3. Move the seat until it is in a position where you
can push the brake and clutch pedals down. 1. Lift the cutting deck to its highest position. Use
the lift lever.
4. Release the seat adjustment lever (A) to lock the
seat in position. 2. Push the clutch/brake pedal down to release the
parking brake.
To connect the battery 3. Put the freewheel control in the "Transmission
disengaged" position, refer to Transportation,
WARNING: Risk of electrical shock storage and disposal on page 35.
and burn injuries. Do not use metal 4. Push the product forward off the skid.
wristbands or other metal accessories.
Metal items that touch the battery 5. Remove the strap that holds the deflector
terminals can cause burn injuries, protection up against the product.
electrical shock, and short circuit of the
battery.
To do a check after the assembly
• Make sure that all assembly instructions are
completed.
Note: If it is after the year and month that is written • Make sure that no remaining parts are in the
on the battery label, charge the battery. Charge the package.
battery for a minimum of 1 hour at 6–10 A.
• Make sure that the battery is prepared and
charged correctly.
1. Find the battery location below the seat or the
• Make sure that the bolts for the seat are
engine cover.
tightened and that the seat is adjusted correctly.
2. Lift the seat pan or the engine cover to the raised • Make sure that the tires are correctly inflated.
position.
• For best cutting results, make sure that the
3. Remove the 2 terminal caps (A) and discard cutting deck is balanced side to side and front
them. to rear. Make sure that the tires are correctly
inflated for a balanced cutting deck.
A • Examine the cutting deck and the drive belts.
Make sure that the drive belts are installed
correctly around the pulleys and inner part of all
belt keepers.
• Examine the electrical wires. Make sure that all
wires and connections are safe.
• Make sure that the freewheel control is in
the “Transmission engaged” position. Refer to
Transportation on page 35.
• Make sure that the engine oil is at the correct
level.
• Make sure that the tank is filled with the correct
type of fuel.
• Make sure that you know the location and
4. Connect the red battery cable to the positive (+) function of all controls.
terminal and tighten the bolt and nut as shown. • Make sure that the brake system is in safe to
Move the terminal cover on the terminal. operate condition.

1966 - 001 - 13
• Make sure that the Operator Presence Control • Remove the air from the transmission before
(OPC) and the Reverse Operation System (ROS) first use. Refer to To remove the air from the
operate correctly. Refer to To do a check of the transmission on page 29.
operator presence control (OPC) on page 7 and
To do a check of the reverse operation system
(ROS) on page 7.

Operation
Introduction To start a warm engine

WARNING: Read and understand

the safety chapter before you use the
product.

To fill fuel
WARNING: Gasoline is very
flammable. Be careful and refuel
outdoors. Refer to Fuel safety on page
9.
1. Sit on the seat.
CAUTION: Always use correct fuel 2. Make sure that the cutting deck is disengaged.
type. Incorrect fuel type causes damage Refer to To engage and disengage the cutting
to the product. deck on page 17.
3. Put the cutting deck in transport position. Refer
• Use gasoline of the correct type. Refer to To set the cutting deck in transport position or
to Technical data on page 36. For more mow position on page 15.
information about the fuel, refer to the engine 4. Move the throttle control to the fast position.
manual supplied by the engine manufacturer.
• Do a check of the fuel level before each use and 5. Push down on the brake pedal fully and hold it
refuel if necessary. down.
• Do not fully fill the fuel tank. Keep a space of a 6. Put the ignition key into the ignition.
minimum 1 in. 7. Turn the ignition key to the “START” position and
release the ignition key when the engine starts.
To start the product
To do before you start the product CAUTION: Do not operate the
starter continuously for more than 15
seconds for each minute.
WARNING: Before you operate the
product, carefully read and understand 8. If the temperature is low, let the engine become
the safety instructions and the operation warm before you start to cut grass.
instructions.
To start a cold engine
1. Do a check of the engine oil level. Refer to To do
a check of the engine oil level on page 28.
2. Fill the fuel tank with fuel. Refer to To fill fuel on
page 14.
3. Disengage the freewheel mode. Refer to To put
the product in freewheel mode on page 18.
4. Sit in the seat in operation position.
5. Engage the parking brake. Refer to To engage
and disengage the parking brake on page 16.
6. Make sure that the cutting deck is disengaged.
Refer to To engage and disengage the cutting
deck on page 17. 1. Sit on the seat.

14 1966 - 001 -
2. Make sure that the cutting deck is disengaged.
Refer to To engage and disengage the cutting CAUTION: Be careful that a
deck on page 17. short circuit does not occur against
the chassis of the product.
3. Put the cutting deck in transport position. Refer
to To set the cutting deck in transport position or 2. Connect one end of the BLACK cable to the
mow position on page 15. NEGATIVE (-) terminal (D) of a fully charged
4. Move the throttle control to the choke position. battery.
5. Push down on the brake pedal fully and hold it 3. Connect the other end of the BLACK cable (A)
down. to good chassis ground, away from the fuel tank
and battery.
6. Put the ignition key into the ignition.
4. Remove the BLACK cable from the chassis when
7. Turn the ignition key to the “START” position and the weak battery is fully charged.
release the ignition key when the engine starts.
5. Remove the BLACK cable from the fully charged
CAUTION: Do not operate the battery.
starter continuously for more than 15 6. Remove the RED cable from the two batteries.
seconds for each minute.
To remove the jumper cables
8. When the engine starts, move the throttle control
to the fast position (D) to warm up the engine. Note: Remove the jumper cables in the opposite
If the temperature is low, some minutes is sequence to how you connect them.
necessary for the engine to get warm.
1. Remove the BLACK cable from the chassis.
CAUTION: If the ambient
2. Remove the BLACK cable from the fully charged
temperature is less than 40° F (4°
battery.
C), you must let the engine operate
1 minute at idle speed before you 3. Remove the RED cable from the 2 batteries.
operate the product. This is to let the
transmission warm up. Make sure To set the cutting deck in transport
that the brake pedal is fully released. position or mow position
To start the engine when the battery is The cutting deck must be in transport position during
transportation.
weak
• To set the product in transport position, pull the
WARNING: Lead-acid batteries can cutting height lever in the direction of the seat
make explosive gases. Keep sparks, and put it in the highest cutting height position.
flames and smoking materials away from • To set the product in mow position, set the
batteries. Always wear eye protection correct cutting height. Refer to To set the cutting
when around batteries. height on page 15.

If the battery is too weak to start the engine, it must To set the cutting height
be charged.
If the jumper cables are used for emergency starting,
follow the procedures below:

A
B
C

• Pull the lift lever in the direction of the seat and

put it in 1 of the notches for the correct cutting
1. Connect one end of the RED cable to the height.
POSITIVE (+) terminal of each battery (B-C).

1966 - 001 - 15
To move forward and rearward 5. To release the parking brake, push down the
brake pedal.
The direction and speed of movement is controlled
by the forward and reverse drive pedals. To stop the product
1. Start the engine.
WARNING: Always stop the
2. Disengage the parking brake. Refer to To
product, engage the parking brake and
engage and disengage the parking brake on remove the ignition key before you go
page 16. away from the product.
3. To start movement, slowly push down on the
forward drive pedal (A) or the reverse drive pedal
(B). CAUTION: The exhaust gas from
the warm engine can cause burn
damage to the grass. To prevent burn
damage , to the grass, always stop the
engine when you stop the product on
grass areas.
A
1. Push down on the brake pedal (A) fully until the
product stops fully.
B A

Note: The forward and reverse drive pedals

go back to neutral position when they are not 2. Disengage the cutting deck. Refer to To engage
pushed down. and disengage the cutting deck on page 17.
4. Push down more on the forward drive pedal or 3. Put the throttle control in the slow position and
the reverse drive pedal to increase the speed. let the engine operate at idle speed for some
minutes.
To engage and disengage the 4. Put the cutting deck in the transport position.
parking brake Refer to To set the cutting deck in transport
position or mow position on page 15.
1. To engage the parking brake, push down the
5. Turn the ignition key to the "STOP" position and
brake pedal (A) fully to the lowest position.
remove the ignition key from the ignition.
B

To use the throttle control

2. With the brake pedal pushed down, pull up the The throttle control adjusts the engine speed and the
parking brake lever (B). speed of the blades in the cutting deck.
3. Release the brake pedal.
4. Release the parking brake lever.

Note: Make sure that the parking brake holds

the product safely.

16 1966 - 001 -
 2. Move the attachment clutch control.
A

• Put the throttle control in the choke position (A)

when you start a cold engine. Refer to To start a
cold engine on page 14.
• Put the throttle control in the fast position (B) to a) Move the attachment clutch control forward to
operate the engine at full speed. Always have the engage the cutting deck.
throttle control in the fast position when you cut b) Move the attachment clutch control rearward
grass. to disengage the cutting deck.
• Put the throttle control in the slow position (C) to
operate the engine at idle speed. To use the reverse operation system
To use the headlight (ROS)
• Push the power switch to position (A) to make Note: If you try to go rearward with the product
the headlight come on. when the cutting deck is engaged, the engine stops
immediately. Engage the ROS to go rearward with
the product when the cutting deck is engaged.
B

WARNING: Before and while you

operate the product rearward, look down
A and behind the product for the safety of
others.

1. Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the

• Push the power switch to position (B) to make ROS "ON" position (A) to engage the ROS.
the headlight go off.

To engage and disengage the A B

cutting deck
WARNING: Do not operate the
cutting deck without a deflector or grass
catcher installed to the grass discharge.

The product has an operator presence control

(OPC). When you go away from the seat with the
engine on and the cutting deck engaged, the engine 2. Slowly push down the reverse drive pedal to start
stops. movement.
Stay fully and in the center of the seat to make sure 3. Turn the ignition key clockwise to the engine
that the engine operates correctly and does not stop "ON" position (B) to disengage the ROS.
on rough terrain or hills.
To get a good cutting result
1. Set the correct cutting height. Refer to To set the
cutting height on page 15. • For best performance, do maintenance on the
product regularly as given in the maintenance
schedule. Refer to Maintenance schedule on
page 19.

1966 - 001 - 17
• Do not cut a wet lawn. Wet grass can give a bad • Pull out the freewheel control lever to operate the
cutting result. product with the engine.
• Do not use tire chains when you attach the
cutting deck to the product. To install the mulch plug (accessory)
• Make sure that the cutting deck is level. Refer to The product can be used with a mulch plug.
To adjust the parallelism of the cutting deck on
page 25. 1. Put the cutting deck in the transport position.
Refer to To set the cutting deck in transport
• If the grass is high, start with a high cutting
position or mow position on page 15.
height and decrease it gradually.
• Move the product forward at low speed if the 2. Remove the grass catcher or the rear discharge
grass is high and thick. deflector (accessory) if it is installed.
• Use full throttle when you cut the grass. 3. Put the mulch plug through the back plate and
• Cut the grass in an irregular pattern. into the chute adaptor for the cutting deck.
• Use the left side of the cutting deck when you 4. Connect the 2 straps to the holes on the support
cut near trees, bushes or paths. The blade cuts arms for the grass catcher.
approximately 15 mm in from the side of the 5. Install the grass catcher or the rear discharge
cutting deck. deflector.
• When you cut large areas, move the product 6. Remove the mulch plug in the opposite
to the right during 1 or 2 turns around sequence.
the work area. This procedure will keep the
grass discharge away from shrubs, fences and To install the rear discharge
driveways. After approximately 2 turns around
the work area, cut in the opposite direction. deflector (accessory)
The product can be used with a rear discharge
deflector.
1. Put the cutting deck in the transport position.
Refer to To set the cutting deck in transport
position or mow position on page 15.
2. Remove the grass catcher.
3. Remove the mulch plug (accessory) if it is
installed.
• To get the best cutting result, cut the grass
frequently. 4. Install the discharge chute through the opening in
the backplate and move the cutting deck adapter
To put the product in freewheel onto it.

mode 5. Install the 2 wing nuts.

6. Install the rear discharge deflector to the
If it is necessary to move or tow the product without backplate with the 4 screws.
aid from the engine, you must put the product in
freewheel mode. 7. Tighten the screws fully.
8. Remove the rear discharge deflector in the
opposite sequence.
WARNING: Do not put the product
in freewheel mode on a slope. To install the grass catcher
(accessory)
• Push in the freewheel control lever (A) to put the
product in freewheel mode. The product can be used with a grass catcher.
1. Put the cutting deck in the transport position.
Refer to To set the cutting deck in transport
position or mow position on page 15.
2. Remove the rear discharge deflector (accessory)
A or the mulch plug (accessory) if it is installed.
3. Put the discharge chute through the back plate
and into the chute adaptor for the cutting deck.
4. Install the 2 wing nuts.
5. Install the grass catcher.
6. Remove the grass catcher in the opposite
sequence.

18 1966 - 001 -
 Maintenance
Introduction
WARNING: Read and understand
the safety chapter before you do
maintenance on the product.

Maintenance schedule

Maintenance schedule Before At inter- At inter- At inter- At inter- Each Before

each vals of 8 vals of vals of vals of season storage
use hours 25 50 100
hours hours hours

Product Do a check of the brake

X X
function.

Do a check of tire pres-

X X
sure.

Do a check of the op-

erator presence control X
(OPC).

Do a check of the re-

verse operation system X
(ROS).

Do a check for loose

X X X
fasteners.

Examine the blades for

X2
wear and damage.

Lubricate the product.

Refer to Lubrication X X
schedule on page 20.
Do a check of the bat-
X
tery level.

Clean the battery and

X X
the terminals.

Clean pieces off the

steering plate. Refer to
X
To clean the product on
page 21.
Do a check of the trans-
X
axle cooling fan.

Make sure that the cut-

X
ting deck is level.

Do a check of the V-
X
belts.

2 Examine the blades more frequently if you cut where there is sand and soil.

1966 - 001 - 19
Maintenance schedule Before At inter- At inter- At inter- At inter- Each Before
each vals of 8 vals of vals of vals of season storage
use hours 25 50 100
hours hours hours

Engine Do a check of the en-

X X
gine oil level.

Change the engine oil

X1 X
(models with oil filter).

Change the engine oil

(models without oil fil- X1 X
ter).

Clean the air filter. X3

Clean the air screen. X3

Do an inspection of the
muffler and the spark X
arrester.

Replace the oil filter (if it

X1 X
is equipped).

Clean the engine cool-

X3
ing fins.

Replace the spark plug. X X

Replace the paper car-

X3
tridge of the air filter.

Replace the fuel filter X

Do a check of the muf-

fler. Refer to To do a
X
check of the muffler on
page 8.

Lubrication schedule

CAUTION: Do not lubricate the

pivot points that have special nylon
bearings. Tacky lubricants can attach
dirt. The dirt decreases the life of the
special nylon bearings. If it is necessary
to lubricate the nylon bearings, use only
a small quantity of dry type lubricant.

1 Do more frequently if you operate with a heavy load, in high ambient temperatures, or in dirty condi-
tions.
1 Do more frequently if you operate with a heavy load, in high ambient temperatures, or in dirty condi-
tions.
3 Do more frequently if you operate with in dirty conditions.
3 Do more frequently if you operate with in dirty conditions.
1 Do more frequently if you operate with a heavy load, in high ambient temperatures, or in dirty condi-
tions.
3 Do more frequently if you operate with in dirty conditions.
3 Do more frequently if you operate with in dirty conditions.

20 1966 - 001 -
 A
Note: For the models with guards, the washout
A port is installed on the left side guard in front of the
rear tire.
A
A
1. Park the product in a clear area on your lawn that
is near a water source with a garden hose.
B
A CAUTION: Do not point the
discharge chute of the product in the
direction of buildings or vehicles.

2. Make sure that the cutting deck is disengaged.

Refer to To engage and disengage the cutting
deck on page 17.
3. Turn the ignition key to the STOP position to stop
the engine.
4. Engage the parking brake.
A. General lubrication. Lubricate the spindle grease
connection, front wheel bearing, gear teeth of the 5. Remove the grass catcher chute or the mulch
steering part. plug if it is installed.
6. Put the nozzle adapter onto the end of your
B. Engine lubrication. Refer to To lubricate the
garden hose (A). Make sure that the garden hose
engine on page 28.
is fully connected to the nozzle adapter.
Tractor
A
To clean the product
Do not use a garden hose or a pressure washer to B
clean the surface except for the washout port. Keep
water out of the engine and transmission. Water in
the engine or transmission can decrease the life of
the product. Use compressed air or a leaf blower to
remove grass, leaves and litter.
• Clean all unwanted material from the engine,
battery, seat and other parts of the product.
• Clean contamination from the steering plate.
Contamination limits the movement of the clutch/ 7. Pull back on the lock collar of the nozzle adapter
brake pedal shaft, causes the belt to loosen and and push the nozzle adapter onto the deck
decreases forward movement. washout port (B).
8. Carefully pull on the garden hose to make sure
CAUTION: Avoid all pinch that it is fully connected.
points and movable parts. 9. Release the lock collar to lock the adapter on the
deck washout port.
• Keep the surfaces and wheels free of all
gasoline, oil, and so on. 10. Start the water supply.
• Use automotive type wax to prevent damage to 11. Sit in the seat and start the engine.
the surfaces.

To use the deck washout port

CAUTION: Examine the area
again to make sure that the area is
The cutting deck has a deck washout port that is a clear.
part of the cleaning system for the cutting deck.
12. Move the throttle control to the fast position.
Refer to To use the throttle control on page 16.
WARNING: Do not use the product
with a broken or missing deck washout 13. Engage the cutting deck and let it operate until
port. There is a risk of thrown objects. the cutting deck is clean. Refer to To engage and
Replace a broken or missing deck disengage the cutting deck on page 17.
washout port immediately. 14. Disengage the cutting deck. Refer to To engage
and disengage the cutting deck on page 17.
15. Turn the ignition key to the STOP position to stop
the engine.

1966 - 001 - 21
16. Stop the water supply. 2. Remove the dust cover (A), the E-clip (B), the
17. Pull back the lock collar of the nozzle adapter washer (C) and the square key (D).
and disconnect the nozzle adapter from the deck
washout port.
18. Move the product to a dry area.
19. Engage the cutting deck and let it operate until
the cutting deck is dry.
C
To adjust the throttle control cable B
The throttle control is set at the factory and
adjustment should not be necessary. If an
adjustment is necessary, see the Engine manual.

To examine the interlocks and the relays A D

Note: Loose or damaged wires can make your

product run unsatisfactorily, stop running or prevent
it from starting.
Note: There are square keys on the rear
wheels only.
• Examine the wires. 3. Remove the wheel from the axle.
To replace the headlight bulb 4. Remove the tire from the wheel.
5. Repair the tire.
1. Open the engine cover.
2. Turn the bulb holder slightly counterclockwise Note: Use tire sealant to seal holes in the
and pull it out of the holder behind the grill.
tire. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and
3. Replace the bulb in the bulb holder. corrosion.
4. Push the bulb holder into the holder behind the
6. Install the tire on the wheel.
grill.
7. Install the wheel, the washer, the square key,
5. Turn the bulb holder slightly clockwise to install it.
and the E-clip on the axle. Make sure that the
6. Close the engine cover. E-clip is installed correctly in the groove on the
axle.
To do a check of the tires
8. Install the dust cover.
Note: To seal the tire holes and prevent flat tires To examine the V-belts
because of slow leaks, purchase sealant from your
local parts dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry The belts are not adjustable.
rot and corrosion. • Examine the V-belts for deterioration and wear
after each interval of 100 hours of operation.
• Make sure the air pressure in all tires is correct • Replace the V-belts if they start to move because
(See the sides of tires for correct PSI). they are too worn.
• Keep the tires free of gasoline, oil or insect
control chemicals that can cause damage to the To do maintenance on the transaxle
rubber. cooling fan
• Keep the tires away from stumps, stones, rut
pits, sharp objects and other dangerous objects CAUTION: Do not clean the fan or
that may cause tire damage. the transmission while the engine is on
or while the transmission is hot.
To repair the tires
1. Lift the front axle and support it safely.
CAUTION: Do not use a high-
pressure washer or a steam cleaner.
CAUTION: Lift and support one Water can go into bearings and electrical
axle at a time. connections and cause corrosion which
causes damage to the product.

To keep the transmission cool, keep the

transmission fan and cooling fins clean.

22 1966 - 001 -
• Before you clean with water, clean with a brush. 3. Remove the drive belt from the pulley (A) and the
Remove grass cuttings and dirt on and around clutch pulley (B).
the transaxle fan and cooling fins.
• Examine the cooling fan to make sure the fan
blades are clean and not damaged.

To examine the transaxle pump fluid

• Make sure that the transaxle pump fluid does not
leak. C
• Speak to the nearest approved service center or
department if the transaxle pump fluid leaks.

To adjust the front wheel toe-in and camber

The front wheel toe-in and camber is correctly set at
the factory. The front wheel toe-in and camber are B
not adjustable.
A
• Speak to an approved service center if the
factory-set front wheel toe-in or camber is E
damaged.

To replace the fuse

This product has an automotive-type fuse. The fuse D
holder is located behind the dashboard.
1. Hold the fuse holder and pull the blown fuse out.
2. Put a new fuse in the fuse holder.

To remove and install the engine cover and

the grill assembly

4. Remove the drive belt from the engine pulley (C)

on the engine shaft.
5. Remove the drive belt from the rear axle pulley
(D) and the belt tension pulley (E).
A 6. Remove the drive belt from the product.
7. Install a new drive belt in the opposite sequence.

Battery
To clean the battery and the terminals
Corrosion and dirt on the battery and terminals can
cause the battery to drain power.
1. Lift the engine cover.
1. Remove the terminal guard.
2. Disconnect the headlight wire connector (A).
2. Disconnect the BLACK battery cable.
3. Stay in front of the tractor. Hold the engine cover
3. Disconnect the RED battery cable and remove
on its sides. Tilt the engine cover in the direction
the battery from the product.
of the engine and lift it to remove it from the
product. 4. Spray the battery with water and let dry.
4. Install in the opposite sequence. 5. Clean the terminals and battery cable ends with
a wire brush.
To replace the drive belt 6. Lubricate the terminals with grease or equivalent.
1. Park the product on a level surface and engage 7. Install the battery. Refer to To replace the battery
the parking brake. Refer to To stop the product on page 23.
on page 16.
2. Remove the cutting deck. Refer to To remove To replace the battery
and install the cutting deck on page 25. The battery is installed below the seat.

1966 - 001 - 23
 WARNING: Risk of electrical shock To connect the jumper cables
and burn injuries. Do not use metal
wristbands or other metal accessories. WARNING: Risk of explosion
Metal items that touch the battery because of explosive gas that comes
terminals can cause burn injuries, from the battery. Do not connect the
electrical shock, and short circuit of the negative terminal of the charged battery
battery. to or near the negative terminal of the
weak battery.
1. Stop the product. Refer to To stop the product on
page 16.
2. Fold the seat forward. CAUTION: Do not use the battery of
your product to start other vehicles.
3. Remove the terminal covers (A).

1. Connect one end of the red battery cable to the

POSITIVE (+) battery terminal (A) on the weak
A battery.

C
B

4. Remove the bolt and the nut to disconnect the D

A
black (negative) battery cable from the negative
(-) terminal.

WARNING: Risk of electrical

shock and burn injuries. The black
(negative) battery cable must be 2. Connect the other end of the red battery cable
disconnected before you disconnect to the POSITIVE (+) battery terminal (B) on the
the red (positive) battery cable. charged battery.

5. Remove the bolt and the nut to disconnect the

red (positive) battery cable from the positive (+)
WARNING: Do not let the ends
of the red battery cable touch the
terminal.
chassis. This will cause a short
6. Carefully remove the battery from the product. circuit.
7. Install a new battery.
3. Connect one end of the black battery cable to
8. Connect the red (positive) battery cable to the the NEGATIVE (-) battery terminal (C) on the
positive (+) terminal and tighten the bolt and the charged battery.
nut.
4. Connect the other end of the black battery cable
to a CHASSIS GROUND (D), away from the fuel
WARNING: Risk of electrical tank and the battery.
shock and burn injuries. The red
(positive) battery cable must be To remove the jumper cables
connected to the positive (+) terminal
before the black (negative) battery Note: Remove the jumper cables in the opposite
cable is connected to the negative sequence to how you connect them.
(-) terminal to prevent injury and
accidental grounding.
1. Remove the BLACK cable from the chassis.
9. Connect the black (negative) battery cable to the 2. Remove the BLACK cable from the fully charged
negative (-) terminal and tighten the bolt and the battery.
nut.
3. Remove the RED cable from the 2 batteries.
10. Install the terminal covers.
11. Fold the seat rearward.

24 1966 - 001 -
Cutting deck To adjust the parallelism of the cutting deck

To remove and install the cutting deck To do a visual side to side adjustment of the cutting
deck
Note: If an accessory other than the cutting deck If the cutting height is not the same on the right
is to be used, the front link and the rear lift links must
and left side of the product, the cutting height can
be removed from the product. Also, the clutch cable
be adjusted. Adjust the cutting height on the side of
spring must be put into the cable guide on the front
cutting deck that has the lower cutting height.
edge of the lower dash.
1. Make sure that the tires are fully inflated.
1. Disengage the cutting deck. Refer to To engage 2. Park the product on a level surface.
and disengage the cutting deck on page 17.
3. Go to the side of cutting deck that has the lower
2. Stop the product. Refer to To stop the product on cutting height.
page 16.
3. Lower the cutting deck to the lowest position. Note: Some models only have left side
4. Remove the drive belt from the clutch pulley (A). adjustment.

4. Adjust the cutting height with a 3/4" wrench.

B G

C H G A

A
J
F
G
D E
Note: Each full turn of lift adjustment nut
I changes the cutting deck height 3/16" (4.7 mm).

J H a) Turn the lift adjustment nut (A) to the left to

lower the cutting deck.
b) Turn the lift adjustment nut (A) to the right to
lift the cutting deck.
5. Cut some grass and examine the results. Adjust
5. Remove the clutch cable (B), push the tab (C) if it is necessary.
and move the clutch cable out of the bracket.
6. Carefully remove the clutch cable spring (D) from To do a precision side to side adjustment of the
the idler arm (E). cutting deck
7. Disconnect the front link (F) from the cutting deck 1. Make sure that the tires are fully inflated.
and remove the retainer spring and washer.
2. Park the product on a level surface.
8. Remove the clips (G) and disconnect the
3. Put the cutting deck in the transport position.
suspension arms (H) from the chassis pins.
Refer to To set the cutting deck in transport
9. Disconnect the rear lift links (I) from the rear position or mow position on page 15.
cutting deck brackets (J) on each side of the
4. Turn the outer blade tips to align with the cutting
cutting deck.
deck side to side.
10. Remove the cutting deck from the product.
11. Install the cutting deck in the opposite sequence. WARNING: The blades on the
Make sure that the discharge side is on the right cutting deck are sharp and can
side of the product. cause injury. Use protective gloves.

Note: The suspension arms must be in

forward position before you move the cutting
deck below the product.

1966 - 001 - 25
5. Measure the distance (B) from the bottom edge 5. Measure the distance to the ground at the rear
of the blade to the ground on the left and right (A) and front (B) end of the blade.
side.

B B
A B

Note: The distance must be the same on the 2

sides. Note: To get the best cutting results, the
blades must be adjusted until the front end is
6. Adjust the cutting height with a 3/4 in wrench. 1/8–1/2 in (3.1–12.7 mm) lower than the rear end
when the cutting deck is in the highest position.
Note: Each full turn of the lift adjustment nut
changes the cutting height with 3/16 in (4.7 mm). 6. Go to the front of the product to make an
adjustment.
a) Turn the lift adjustment nut (A) to the left to 7. Use a 11/16 in wrench to loosen the jam nut (C)
lower the cutting deck. to clear the lift adjustment nut (D).

b) Turn the lift adjustment nut (A) to the right to

C
lift the cutting deck.
7. Measure the distance again. Adjust until the 2 8. Adjust the cutting deck height with a 3/4 in
sides are equal. wrench.
8. Cut some grass and examine the results. Adjust
if it is necessary. Note: Each full turn of the lift adjustment nut
changes the cutting deck height 1/8 in (3.1 mm).
To do front to rear adjustment of the cutting deck
a) Turn the lift adjustment nut counterclockwise
The cutting deck must be level side to side before to lower the cutting deck.
you do front to rear adjustment. Refer to To do a b) Turn the lift adjustment nut clockwise to lift
visual side to side adjustment of the cutting deck on the cutting deck.
page 25.
9. Measure the front and rear distance again.
1. Make sure that the tires are fully inflated.
10. Adjust until the front end of the blade is 1/8–1/2
2. Park the product on a level surface. in (3.1–12.7 mm) lower than the rear end.
3. Put the cutting deck in transport position. Refer 11. Hold the lift adjustment nut in position with the
to To set the cutting deck in transport position or wrench and tighten the jam nut.
mow position on page 15.
4. Turn the blades until they point straight forward.
To replace the blades
For the best results, keep the mower blades sharp.
WARNING: The blades on the Replace bent or damaged blades.
cutting deck are sharp and can
cause injury. Use protective gloves. CAUTION: Use only a replacement
blade approved by the manufacturer. It is
dangerous to use a blade not approved
by the manufacturer of the product. This
can cause damage to the product and
void your warranty.

26 1966 - 001 -
1. Put the cutting deck in transport position. Refer To install the drive belt for the cutting deck
to To set the cutting deck in transport position or
mow position on page 15. 1. Install the drive belt (A) around the mandrel
pulleys (B).
2. Remove the bolt (A) by turning it
counterclockwise and remove the blade (B).
C D

E
B
D
A

C B

WARNING: The blades on the

cutting deck are sharp and can
cause injury. Use protective gloves. CAUTION: Put the drive belt
3. Install the new or sharpened blade and the bolt. correctly in all the grooves on the
cutting deck pulleys. The drive belt
can become damaged if it is not
CAUTION: The center hole (C) installed correctly.
in the blade must align with the star
(D) on the mandrel assembly (E). 2. Install the drive belt around the idler pulleys (C).
4. Torque the bolt to 45–55 ft-lbs (62-75 Nm). 3. Install the drive belt around the clutch pulley (D)
on the engine shaft.
To remove the drive belt for the cutting 4. Put the cutting deck in transport position. Refer
deck to To set the cutting deck in transport position or
mow position on page 15.
1. Park the product on a level surface and engage
the parking brake. Refer to To stop the product To adjust the anti-scalp rollers
on page 16.
The anti-scalp rollers keep the cutting deck in the
2. Put the cutting deck in the lowest position. Refer
correct position on the ground and prevent lawn
to To set the cutting height on page 15.
scalping in most terrain conditions. The anti-scalp
3. Remove the dirt and grass around the mandrels rollers are adjusted correctly when they are slightly
and from the top surface of the cutting deck. off the ground when the cutting deck is at the
4. Remove the drive belt (A) from the clutch pulley necessary cutting height.
(B) on the engine shaft.
1. Park the product on a level surface and stop the
engine.
D B
2. Adjust the product to the necessary cutting
height. Refer to To set the cutting height on page
15.
3. Remove the nut, the bolt, the washer, and the
A anti-scalp roller.

9/16”

5. Remove the drive belt from the mandrel pulleys 3/4”

(C) and the idler pulleys (D).

1966 - 001 - 27
4. Install the anti-scalp roller, the bolt, the washer, 5. Put the dipstick into the oil fill tube. Make sure
and the nut in the correct position. that the oil fill cap is fully tightened.
5. Adjust all anti-scalp rollers and install them in the
same procedure. Note: To replace the engine oil, Refer to To
replace the engine oil on page 28.
Engine
To replace the engine oil
To lubricate the engine
If the engine is cold, start the engine for 1–2 minutes
Only use high quality detergent oil rated with API
before you drain the engine oil. This makes the
service classification SJ-SN. The oil’s SAE viscosity
engine oil warm and faster to drain.
grade refers to the correct temperature for operation.
WARNING: Do not operate the
engine for more than 1–2 minutes before
SAE 30
you drain the engine oil. The engine oil
5W-30
becomes very hot and can cause burn
F -20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100
injuries. Let the engine become cool
C -30 -20 -10 0 10 20 30 40
before you drain the engine oil.

Note: Multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30, and so WARNING: Use protective gloves.
on) help the engine start easily in cold weather but If you spill engine oil on your body, clean
causes increased oil use when used in temperatures with soap and water.
above 32°F/0°C. Do a check of your engine oil
level frequently to prevent possible engine damage 1. Put the product on a level surface and stop the
caused by low oil level. product. Refer to To stop the product on page
16.
• Change the oil after intervals of 50 hours of
2. Remove all dirt around the oil tank cap.
operation. If the product is not used for 50 hours
in a year, change the oil at a minimum of 1 time a 3. Remove the oil tank cap and dipstick.
year. 4. Put the oil drain extension (A) on the chassis,
• Do a check of the crankcase oil level before you under the oil drain plug (B).
start the engine and after each eight (8) hours of
operation.
• Tighten the oil fill cap/dipstick each time you do a B
check of the oil level.

To do a check of the engine oil level

The engine in the product is filled with engine oil for
ambient temperatures of more than 32° F (0° C). For
operation in ambient temperatures of less than 32° F
(0° C), use the correct engine oil to make the product
easier to start. Refer to Technical data on page 36.
A
1. Park the product in level ground.
2. Remove the oil fill cap and dipstick and clean it
5. Put a container below the oil drain extension.
with a cloth.
6. Remove the oil drain plug with a socket wrench.
3. Put the dipstick into the oil fill tube. Do not turn
the oil fill cap onto the oil fill tube. 7. Let the engine oil drain into the container.
4. Remove the dipstick. Use the gauge on the 8. Remove the oil drain extension.
dipstick to examine the engine oil level. If 9. Install the oil drain plug. Torque the oil drain plug
necessary, fill engine oil until the mark “FULL” to 13 lb-ft (17 Nm).
on the dipstick is reached. Do not fill too much
engine oil.
CAUTION: Do not tighten the oil
drain plug too much.

10. Fill with new oil and do a check of the engine oil
ADD FULL CAUTION - DO level. Refer to To do a check of the engine oil
01341 level on page 28.
11. Install the oil tank cap and dipstick.

28 1966 - 001 -
 necessary. Make sure that the engine cooling
Note: For safe disposal of used engine oil, refer to system parts are installed correctly.
Disposal on page 36.
To replace the spark plugs
To replace the engine oil filter The spark plug type and clearance (gap setting) are
shown in Technical data on page 36.
WARNING: Use protective gloves.
• Replace the spark plugs at the start of each
If you spill engine oil on your body, clean
cutting season or after each interval of 100 hours
with soap and water.
of operation.
1. Drain the engine oil from the oil tank. Refer to To To replace the in-line fuel filter
replace the engine oil on page 28.
2. Turn the engine oil filter counterclockwise to Note: Replace the in-line fuel filter every year at
remove it. minimum.
3. Lightly lubricate the rubber seal on the new oil
filter with new engine oil. Replace the in-line filter if it becomes clogged and
4. To install the new oil filter, turn it clockwise until stops the flow of fuel to the carburetor.
the rubber seal fits correctly, then tighten a half 1. Let the engine cool.
turn more.
2. Remove the in-line fuel filter (B) and seal the fuel
5. Fill the oil tank with new engine oil. Refer to To line sections with plugs.
replace the engine oil on page 28.
3. Put the new in-line fuel filter in position in the fuel
6. Start the engine and let it operate at idle speed line with the arrow pointing to the carburetor.
for 3 minutes.
4. Make sure that there are no fuel line leaks and
7. Stop the engine and make sure that there is no that the clamps (A) are in the correct position.
oil leakage from the oil filter.
5. If you spill, immediately clean the product.

Note: If the there is oil leakage, tighten the oil

A
filter again.

8. Fill the oil tank with more engine oil to replace

the engine oil that the new oil filter has absorbed.

To clean the air filter

The engine will not run satisfactorily with a dirty air
filter. Clean the air filter more frequently in dusty
B
conditions.

To clean the air screen To remove the air from the

transmission
Note: The air screen must be kept free of dirt to
prevent engine damage caused by overheating. CAUTION: Do not engage or
disengage freewheel lever when the
• Clean the air screen with a wire brush or engine is in operation.
compressed air to remove dirt.

To do maintenance on the engine cooling To keep high performance, remove the air in the
transmission before you operate the product for the
system
first time.
Note: A blocked grass screen, dirty or full cooling If you replace the transmission, remove the air in the
fins, and/or removed blower housing, and so on, can new transmission before you operate the product.
make the engine too hot and cause engine damage. 1. Park the product on a level surface that is clear
and open.
• Make sure that the grass screen, the cooling fins,
2. Stop the engine and engage the parking brake.
and other external surfaces of the engine are
clean at all times. 3. Put the freewheel control in the disengaged
position. Refer to Transportation on page 35.
• After each interval of 100 hours of operation
(more often in extremely dusty and dirty 4. Start the engine. When the engine has started,
conditions), remove the blower housing and move the throttle control to the slow position and
other parts of the engine cooling system. disengage the parking brake.
Clean the cooling fins and external surfaces as

1966 - 001 - 29
5. Do the steps that follow 3 times. 6. Stop the engine and engage the parking brake.
7. Put the freewheel control in the engaged
Note: During this procedure, there can be position. Refer to Transportation on page 35.
movement of the drive wheels.
8. Sit in the seat and start the engine. When the
engine has started, move the throttle control to
a) Push the forward drive pedal to the full the half speed position.
forward position and keep it pushed down for
5 seconds before you release it. 9. Disengage the parking brake.
b) Push the reverse drive pedal to the full 10. Operate the product forward for approximately 5
reverse position and keep it pushed down for ft (1.5 m) then rearward for 5 ft (1.5 m). Do this
5 seconds before you release it. procedure 3 times.

Troubleshooting

Problem Cause Action

The engine does not start. There is no fuel in the fuel tank. Fill the fuel tank.

The throttle control is not in the Refer to the start instructions.

correct position.

The spark plug is defective. Replace the spark plug.

The air filter is dirty. Clean or replace the air filter.

The fuel filter is clogged. Replace the fuel filter.

There is water in the fuel. Remove all fuel from the fuel tank
and the carburetor. Fill the fuel
tank with new fuel and replace the
fuel filter.

The wires are loose or damaged. Do a check of all wires.

The engine valves are not adjus- Speak to an approved service

ted correctly. agent.

The engine is flooded. Wait 2–3 minutes before you try to

start the engine again.

The fuel in the fuel tank is bad. Replace the fuel in the fuel tank.

30 1966 - 001 -
 Problem Cause Action

The starter motor does not turn the The battery is too weak. Charge the battery.
engine over.
The attachment clutch control is Disengage the attachment clutch
engaged. control.

The clutch/brake pedal is not Push down the clutch/brake pedal

pushed down fully. fully when you start the engine.

The connection at the cable con- Do a check of the battery connec-

nectors on the battery terminals is tions.
bad.

The main fuse is defective. Replace the main fuse.

The ignition lock is defective. Speak to an approved service

agent.

The safety connector for clutch/ Speak to an approved service

brake pedal is defective. agent.

The starter motor or the solenoid is Speak to an approved service

defective. agent.

The operator presence control Do a check of the wires, switches

(OPC) is defective. and connections. If not corrected,
speak to an approved service
agent. Do not operate product with
a defective operator presence con-
trol.

The engine does not run smoothly. The spark plug is defective. Replace the spark plug.

The carburetor is not adjusted cor- Speak to an approved service

rectly. agent.

The air filter is dirty. Clean or replace the air filter.

The check valve on the fuel tank Replace the fuel tank cap.
cap is defective.

The fuel tank is almost empty. Fill the fuel tank with fuel.

There is water in the fuel. Remove all fuel from the fuel tank
and the carburetor. Fill the fuel
tank with new fuel and replace the
fuel filter.

The choke is engaged and the en- Disengage the choke.

gine is warm.

The fuel mix or fuel type is incor- Remove all fuel from the fuel tank
rect. and the carburetor. Fill the fuel
tank with the correct fuel mix or
fuel type.

The fuel filter is clogged Replace the fuel filter.

The spark plug is defective. Replace the spark plug.

There is dirt in the carburetor or Clean the carburetor and fuel

fuel line. lines.

1966 - 001 - 31
Problem Cause Action

The engine becomes too hot. There is overload in the engine. Decrease the workload.

The air intake or the cooling fins Clean the air intake and the cool-
on the engine are blocked. ing fins on the engine.

The cooling fan is defective. Speak to an approved service

agent.

The engine oil level is too low. Do a check of the engine oil level.
Fill with engine oil if it is necessa-
ry.

The ignition lock is defective. Speak to an approved service

agent.

The spark plug is defective. Replace the spark plug.

There is loss of power. The product is operated at too high Use slower speed.
forward or rearward speed when
you cut grass.

The throttle control is in the choke Put the throttle control in the fast
position. position.

There is build-up of grass, leaves Clean the cutting deck.

or unwanted material under the
cutting deck.

The air filter is dirty. Clean or replace the air filter.

The engine oil level is too low. Do a check of the engine oil level.
Fill with engine oil if it is necessa-
ry.

The engine oil is dirty. Replace the engine oil.

The spark plug is defective. Replace the spark plug.

The fuel filter is dirty. Replace the fuel filter.

The fuel in the fuel tank is bad. Replace the fuel in the fuel tank.

There is water in the fuel. Remove all fuel from the fuel tank
and the carburetor. Fill the fuel
tank with new fuel and replace the
fuel filter.

The spark plug wire is loose. Connect and tighten the spark plug
wire.

The air intake or the cooling fins Clean the air intake and the cool-
on the engine are blocked. ing fins on the engine.

The muffler is clogged or dam- Clean or replace the muffler.

aged.

There is loose or damaged wiring. Do a check of all wiring.

The engine valves are not adjus- Speak to an approved service

ted correctly. agent.

There is vibration in the product. The blades are loose. Tighten bolts on the blades.

One or more of the blades are Balance the blades or replace the
damaged or not balanced. blades.

The engine is loose. Tighten the engine bolts.

32 1966 - 001 -
 Problem Cause Action

The battery does not charge. The main fuse is defective. Replace the main fuse.

The battery is defective. Replace the battery.

The charging cable is disconnec- Connect the charging cable.

ted.

The connection at the cable con- Do a check of the battery connec-

nectors on the battery terminals is tions.
bad.

The engine operates when the op- Do a check of the wires, switches
erator gets up from the seat when and connections. If not corrected,
the cutting deck is engaged. The operator presence control speak to an approved service
(OPC) is defective. agent. Do not operate product with
a defective operator presence con-
trol.

The blades cannot rotate. There is blockage in the clutch Remove the blockage.
mechanism.

The drive belt for the cutting deck Replace the drive belt for the cut-
is worn or damaged. ting deck.

An idler pulley is frozen. Replace the idler pulley.

A blade mandrel is frozen. Replace the blade mandrel.

Defective grass discharge. The engine speed is too slow. Put the throttle control in the fast
position.

The product is operated at too high Use slower speed.

forward or rearward speed.

The grass is wet. Let the grass become dry before

you cut it.

The cutting deck is deck not paral- Adjust the parallelism of the cutting
lel. deck. Refer to To adjust the paral-
lelism of the cutting deck on page
25.
The tire pressure is incorrect. Do a check of the tire pressure.
Adjust the tire pressure if it is nec-
essary.

The blades are worn, damaged or Replace blades or tighten bolts on

loose. the blades.

Buildup of grass or dirt below the Clean the cutting deck.

cutting deck.

The drive belt for the cutting deck Replace the drive belt for the cut-
is worn or damaged. ting deck.

The blades are incorrectly instal- Install the blades with the sharp
led. edge down.

Incorrect blades are used. Replace the blades with the cor-
rect blades in the parts manual.

Clogged air holes of the cutting Clean around mandrels to open air
deck from buildup of grass, dirt holes.
around mandrels.

1966 - 001 - 33
Problem Cause Action

The headlight does not function. The headlight switch is in the off Turn the headlight switch to the on
position. position.

The light bulb is defective. Replace the light bulb.

The power switch for the headlight Replace power switch for the
is defective. headlight.

The cable to the headlight is not Do a check of wires and connec-

connected. tions.

There is short-circuit in the head- Speak to an approved service

light cable. agent.

The product moves slowly, with ir- The product is in freewheel mode. Pull out the freewheel control lev-
regular speed or not at all. er. Refer to To put the product in
freewheel mode on page 18.
The parking brake is engaged. Disengage the parking brake.

The drive belt is loose or dam- Replace drive belt.

aged.

There is air in the transmission. Remove the air from the transmis-
sion. Refer to To remove the air
from the transmission on page 29.
There is unwanted materials on Clean the product.
the steering plate (if the steering
plate is installed).

The square key on the axle is Install the square key. Refer to To
missing. repair the tires on page 22.
The cutting result is unsatisfactory. The blades are blunt or damaged. Sharpen the blades or replace the
blades.

The cutting deck is not parallel. Adjust the parallelism of the cutting
deck. Refer to To adjust the paral-
lelism of the cutting deck on page
25.
The grass is wet. Let the grass become dry before
you cut it.

The grass is long. Start with a high cutting height and

decrease it gradually.

The tire pressure is incorrect. Do a check of the tire pressure.

Adjust the tire pressure if it is nec-
essary.

The product is operated at too high Use slower speed.

forward or rearward speed.

The drive belt for the cutting deck Replace the drive belt for the cut-
is worn or damaged. ting deck.

The engine backfires when the en- The throttle control is not put in the Refer to To stop the product on
gine stops. slow position. page 16.
The engine stops when you try to The reverse operation system Engage the reverse operation sys-
reverse. (ROS) is not engaged. tem (ROS). Refer to To use the re-
verse operation system (ROS) on
page 17.

34 1966 - 001 -
 Transportation, storage and disposal
Transportation 1. Lift the attachment to the highest position with
the attachment lift control.
Note: Close and attach the hood to the product 2. Pull the freewheel control out and into the slot
during transportation to prevent damage. Connect and release to hold it in the disengaged position.
the hood to the product with the correct tools (rope,
3. Do not move the product at more than two (2)
cord and so on).
mph (3.2 km/h).

When you move the product, put the freewheel 4. To reengage transmission, reverse the above
control in freewheeling position to disengage the procedure.
transmission. Freewheel control is at the rear Tow safety
drawbar of the product.
• Only use tow equipment approved by
Husqvarna.
• Use the tow bar to attach the equipment.
• Do not tow equipment that is heavier than the
maximum permitted weight.
• Make sure that no other persons is near the
product when you tow equipment.
• Do not tow equipment on slopes or rough
ground.
• Operate the product at low speed when you tow
equipment.

Storage
Prepare the product for storage at the end of the the product become cool before you put
season, and before more than 30 days of storage. If it in storage.
you keep fuel in the fuel tank for 30 days or more,
tacky particles can cause blockage in the carburetor. • Clean the product, see To clean the product
This has a negative effect on the engine function. on page 21. Repair paint damages to prevent
To prevent tacky particles during storage, add a corrosion.
stabilizer. If alkylate gasoline is used, stabilizer is • Examine the product for worn or damaged parts
not necessary. If you use standard gasoline, do and tighten loose screws and nuts.
not change to alkylate gasoline. This can cause • Remove the battery. Clean it, charge it, and keep
sensitive rubber parts to become hard. Add stabilizer it cool during storage.
to the fuel in the tank or in the container used for • Change the engine oil, and discard the waste oil.
storage. Always use the mixing ratios given by the
• Empty the fuel tank. Start the engine and run it
manufacturer. Run the engine for a minimum of 10
until there is no remaining fuel in the carburetor.
minutes after you add the stabilizer until it flows into
the carburetor.
Note: Do not empty the fuel tank and
carburetor if a stabilizer has been added.
WARNING: Do not keep the
product with fuel in the tank in an indoor • Remove the plugs and put about a tablespoon of
location or in locations with bad airflow. engine oil into each cylinder. Manually turn the
Risk of fire if fuel fumes come near engine shaft to apply the oil and put the plugs
open flames, sparks, or pilot lights in back on.
for example boilers, hot water tanks and • Lubricate all grease nipples, joints and axles.
clothes dryers. • Keep the product in a clean and dry area and
cover it for more protection.
WARNING: Remove grass, leaves • A cover for protection of your product during
storage or transport is available at your dealer.
and other flammable materials from the
product to decrease the risk of fire. Let

1966 - 001 - 35
 Disposal
• Chemicals can be dangerous and must not be the local recycling requirements and applicable
discarded on the ground. Always discard used regulations.
chemicals at a service center or an applicable • Do not discard the battery as domestic waste.
disposal location. • Send the battery to a Husqvarna service agent
• When the product is worn out, send it to the or discard it at a disposal location for used
dealer or to an applicable recycling location. batteries.
• Oil, oil filters, fuel and the battery can have
negative effects on the environment. Obey

Technical data

TS138

Engine

Engine brand LCC

Engine model LC1P96F

Nominal engine output, hp / kW 1 13.47 / 18

Max. engine speed, rpm 3300 ± 100

Engine idle speed, rpm 1750

Maximum speed forward, mph / km/h 5.2 / 8.4

Maximum speed reverse, mph / km/h 2.2 / 3.5

Fuel, minimum octane grade, lead-free, max 10% 87 / 91

Ethanol and max 15% MTBE, AKI / RON

Fuel tank volume, gallons / l 1.5 / 5.67

Oil type above 32°F / 0°C (API: SJ-SN): SAE 30

Oil type below 32°F / 0°C (API: SJ-SN): SAE 5W30

Oil volume with oil filter, gallons / l 0.37 / 1.4

Oil volume without oil filter, gallons / l 0.34 / 1.3

Lubrication system Pressure with oil filter

Cooling system Air cooled

Air filter Dual

Alternator, V. amp. @ 3600 rpm 12 V 15 amp @ 3600 rpm

Start motor Electric start 12 V

Weight

Weight, with empty tanks, lb / kg 404 / 183

Cutting deck

Number of blades 2

1 The power rating as declared by the engine manufacturer is the average gross power output at the
specified RPM of a typical production engine for the engine model measured using SAE Standards for
engine gross power. Refer to the engine manufacturer engine specifications.

36 1966 - 001 -
 TS138

Blade length, in. / cm 19.29 / 49

Cutting Width, in. / cm 38 / 97

Cutting Height, in. / cm 1.5–4.0 / 3.8–10.2

Tires

Tire pressure, rear – front, kPa / PSI / bar 103 / 15 / 1

Front tires, in. 15 x 6-6

Rear tires, turf pneumatic, in. 18 x 9.5-8

Brakes Mechanical parking brake

Electrical system

Type 12 V

Battery 28 A

Spark plug XC12YC

Electrode gap, in. / mm 0.030 / 0.76

Spark plug torque, lb-ft / Nm 14.75 / 20

Noise emissions 2

Sound power level, measured dB(A) 99

Sound power level, guaranteed LWA dB(A) 100

Sound levels 3

Sound pressure level at the operators ear, dB(A) 85

Vibration levels 4

Vibration level on the steering wheel, m/s2 2.78

Vibration level in the seat, m/s2 0.37

Service
Service When you send an order for the spare parts, give
information about the purchase year, model, type,
Do a yearly check at an authorized service center to and serial number.
make sure that the product functions safely and at
Always use original spare parts.
its best during high season. The best time to do a
servicing or overhaul of the product is low season.

2 Noise emissions in the environment measured as sound power ( LWA) in conformity with EC directive
2000/14/ EC. Reported sound power level for the machine has been measured with the original cutting
attachment that gives the highest level. The difference between guaranteed and measured sound
power is that the guaranteed sound power also includes dispersion in the measurement result and the
variations between different machines of the same model according to Directive 2000/14/EC.
3 Reported data for equivalent sound pressure level for the product has a typical statistical dispersion
(standard deviation) of 1 dB(A).
4 Reported data for equivalent vibration level has a typical statistical dispersion (standard deviation) of 1
m/s2.

1966 - 001 - 37
38
SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION

FOL
D AL
THIS ONG
IS A DOT
15 D TED
EGR LINE
EE S
LOP
E

ONLY RIDE UP AND DOWN HILL,

NOT ACROSS HILL

15 DEGREES MAX.

WARNING: To avoid serious injury, operate your tractor up and

down the face of slopes, never across the face. Do not mow
slopes greater than 15 degrees. Make turns gradually to prevent
tipping or loss of control. Exercise extreme caution when
changing direction on slopes.

1. Fold this page along dotted line indicated above.

2. Hold page before you so that its left edge is vertically parallel to a tree
trunk or other upright structure.
3. Sight across the fold in the direction of hill slope you want to measure.
4. Compare the angle of the fold with the slope of the hill.

1966 - 001 -
1966 - 001 - 39
www.husqvarna.com

Original instructions

1143237-28

2022-09-21