IMPORTANT MANUAL Do Not Throw Away OWNER'S MANUAL WARNING: MODEL: PR18542STC Read the Owner's Manual and follow all Warnings and Safety Instructions. Failure to do so can result in serious injury. LAWN TRACTOR Always Wear Eye Protection During Operation 175682 01.08.01 RH Printed in U.S.A.
SAFETY RULES SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDE-ON MOWERS IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. DO NOT: • Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible. • Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.
SAFETY RULES Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area. Never carry passengers or children even with the blades off. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing. Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS GASOLINE CAPACITY AND TYPE: 2.00 GALLONS UNLEADED REGULAR OIL TYPE (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (above 32°F) SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) OIL CAPACITY: W/ FILTER: 4.0 PINTS W/O FILTER: 3.75 PINTS SPARK PLUG: (GAP: .040") CHAMPION RC12YC GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance.
UNASSEMBLED HARDWARE Steering Wheel Seat Steering Extension Shaft Steering Sleeve Steering Wheel Insert (1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge (1) Hex Bolt 3/8-16 x 1 (1) Knob (1) Oil Drain Tube For Future Use (1) Lock washer 3/8 Slope Sheet Keys (2) Keys (1) Large Flat Washer (1) Locknut 5/16-18 Blades (1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-1/4 Steering Wheel Adapter (2) Mulcher Blades 5
ASSEMBLY Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness. TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY INSERT A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.
ASSEMBLY NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the tractor from the skid. SEAT PAN TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section, page 10, for location and function of controls) LABEL BATTERY BOX DOOR • TERMINAL TERMINAL • • • • FIG. 2 Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest position. Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.
ASSEMBLY IMPORTANT: FOR SHIPPING PURPOSES, THE MULCHER PLATE WAS PREATTACHED TO YOUR MOWER. THE MULCHER PLATE MUST ONLY BE USED WITH THE MULCHING BLADES THAT CAME PACKED SEPARATELY IN THE CARTON. CHECK TIRE PRESSURE The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance. • Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual.
OPERATION These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.
OPERATION KNOW YOUR TRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference. IGNITION SWITCH ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER LIGHT SWITCH POSITION AMMETER LIFT LEVER PLUNGER CHOKE ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER CLUTCH/ BRAKE PEDAL THROTTLE CONTROL GEARSHIFT LEVER HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB PARKING BRAKE LEVER FIG.
OPERATION The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses. HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR CAUTION: Always stop tractor completely, as described above, before leaving the operator's position; to empty grass catcher, etc.
OPERATION • • • Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface. Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See “TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT” in the Operation section of this manual). With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off the ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-16 locknut and tighten securely. Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.
OPERATION season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur. • CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame. • TO START ENGINE (See Fig.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE E S S GE RS US RS UR OUR OU SON ORA U O H O H H A 0 ST EA 8H SE 25 50 10 Y RE Y Y Y Y RE R R R R R O O E E F E E E F SERVICE EV EV EV EV EV BE BE CH DATES Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure T R A C T 0 R Check Operator Presence and Interlock Systems Check for Loose Fasteners 7 Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades 4 Lubrication Chart Check Battery Level 6 Clean Battery and Terminals Check Transaxle Cooling
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES TRACTOR TRAILING EDGE UP Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance. BLADE MANDREL ASSEMBLY CENTER HOLE BRAKE OPERATION If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted. (See “TO ADJUST BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual). FLAT WASHER LOCK WASHER STAR TIRES • Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (See “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual).
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES • • TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS Corrosion and dirt on the battery and terminals can cause the battery to “leak” power. • Open battery box door. • Disconnect BLACK battery cable first then RED battery cable and remove battery from tractor. • Rinse the battery with plain water and dry. • Clean terminals and battery cable ends with wire brush until bright. • Coat terminals with grease or petroleum jelly.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES IN-LINE FUEL FILTER (See Fig. 14) TO SERVICE CARTRIDGE • Clean cartridge by tapping gently on flat surface. If very dirty or damaged, replace cartridge. • Reinstall precleaner cartridge, cover and secure with knobs. The fuel filter should be replaced once each season. If fuel filter becomes clogged, obstructing fuel flow to carburetor, replacement is required. • With engine cool, remove filter and plug fuel line sections.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS: • Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake. • Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position. • Place attachment clutch in “DISENGAGED” position. • Turn ignition key “OFF” and remove key. • Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped. • Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING FRONT-TO-BACK ADJUSTMENT (See Figs. 18 and 19) Adjust the mower while tractor is parked on level ground or driveway. Make sure tires are properly inflated (See “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section of this manual). If tires are over or underinflated, you will not properly adjust your mower. IMPORTANT: DECK MUST BE LEVEL SIDE-TO-SIDE.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE BELT (See Fig. 20) TO REPLACE MOTION DRIVE BELT (See Fig. 22) The mower blade drive belt may be replaced without tools. Park the tractor on level surface. Engage parking brake. Park the tractor on level surface. Engage parking brake. For assistance, there is a belt installation guide decal on bottom side of left footrest. • Remove mower (See “TO REMOVE MOWER” in this section of this manual.) • Remove belt from stationary idler and clutching idler.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS TO ADJUST STEERING WHEEL ALIGNMENT TO START ENGINE WITH A WEAK BATTERY (See Fig. 25) If steering wheel crossbars are not horizontal (left to right) when wheels are positioned straight forward, remove steering wheel and reassemble per instructions in the Assembly section of this manual. CAUTION: Lead-acid batteries generate explosive gases. Keep sparks, flame and smoking materials away from batteries. Always wear eye protection when around batteries.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS REPLACING BATTERY (See Figs. 26 and 27) KEPS NUT CAUTION: Do not short battery terminals by allowing a wrench or any other object to contact both terminals at the same time. Before connecting battery, remove metal bracelets, wristwatch bands, rings, etc. Positive terminal must be connected first to prevent sparking from accidental grounding. • • • • • • HEX BOLT POSITIVE (RED) CABLE Lift seat pan to raised position and open battery box door.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ENGINE STOP TO ADJUST THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE (See Fig. 29) The throttle control has been preset at the factory and adjustment should not be necessary. Check adjustment as described below before loosening cable. If adjustment is necessary, proceed as follows: • With engine not running, move throttle control lever to fast position. • Check that swivel is against stop. If it is not, loosen cable clamp screw and pull cable back until swivel is against stop.
STORAGE Immediately prepare your tractor for storage at the end of the season or if the tractor will not be used for 30 days or more. ENGINE FUEL SYSTEM CAUTION: Never store the tractor with gasoline in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure. IMPORTANT: IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREVENT GUM DEPOSITS FROM FORMING IN ESSENTIAL FUEL SYSTEM PARTS SUCH AS CARBURETOR, FUEL FILTER, FUEL HOSE, OR TANK DURING STORAGE.
TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS PROBLEM CAUSE Will not start 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Out of fuel. Engine not “CHOKED” properly. Engine flooded. Bad spark plug. Dirty air filter. Dirty fuel filter. Water in fuel. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Loose or damaged wiring. Carburetor out of adjustment. 8. 9. 10. Hard to start CORRECTION Engine valves out of adjustment. 10. Fill fuel tank. See “TO START ENGINE” in Operation section. Wait several minutes before attempting to start. Replace spark plug.
TROUBLESHOOTING POINTS PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Engine continues to run when operator leaves seat with attachment clutch engaged 1. Faulty operator-safety presence control system. 1. Check wiring, switches and connections. If not corrected, contact an authorized service center/ department. Poor cut - uneven 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Worn, bent or loose blade. Mower deck not level. Buildup of grass, leaves, and trash under mower. Bent blade mandrel.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC SCHEMATIC RED BLACK BATTERY RED A RED FUSE AMMETER (OPTIONAL) M STARTER BLACK WHITE SOLENOID RED B S G BLACK L M CLUTCH / BRAKE (PEDAL UP) A1 A2 WHITE SEAT SWITCH (NOT OCCUPIED) IGNITION SWITCH WHITE BLACK BLACK BLACK BLACK HOUR METER ATT'MENT CLUTCH (CLUTCH OFF) GROUNDING CONNECTOR (OPTIONAL) BLUE SPARK PLUG GAP (2 PLUGS ON TWIN CYL.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC ELECTRICAL 21 22 42 24 41 43 27 27 40 26 27 27 25 16 16 33 30 52 D.C .
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC ELECTRICAL KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC CHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES 212 17 159 29 30 24 18 12 28 24 25 26 26 25 53 58 51 31 52 55 5 3 57 5 208 9 207 208 54 20 11 208 23 207 26 64 207 3 35 3 33 1 13 10 3 142 3 115 145 37 37 3 3 114 2 211 142 3 208 3 35 14 206 3 38 34 26 14 38 30
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC CHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC DRIVE 57 51 89 69 63 197 212 81 59 84 198 161 70 66 159 158 61 65 162 56 21 85 164 169 10 13 14 168 163 112 80 18 113 4 8 42 40 82 3 85 165 51 166 156 5 11 52 48 151 51 27 49 32 30 32 170 30 47 6 52 62 6 77 150 38 39 6 79 202 50 42 18 16 55 64 41 83 14 35 36 120 37 34 25 19 28 24 36 77 96 26 74 78 1 35 53 2 145 116 76 75 32 29 22 26 27
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC DRIVE KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC STEERING ASSEMBLY 38 63 11 39 1 41 42 37 37 36 44 51 54 88 91 43 71 67 67 68 46 29 67 8 29 13 6 65 17 46 2 8 6 87 5 87 3 32 5 11 68 4 29 43 82 40 43 15 33 29 15 34 15 10 34 35 6 8
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC STEERING ASSEMBLY KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC SEAT ASSEMBLY 1 8 8 9 14 9 7 7 10 5 6 22 21 2 24 5 16 25 15 11 4 13 17 3 12 KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 171683 140551 71110616 19131610 145006 73800600 124181X 17000616 19131614 174894 166369 Seat Bracket Pivot Seat 8 720 Bolt Fin Hex 3/8-16 Unc X 1 Washer 13/32 X 1 X 10 Ga Clip Push-In Nut Hex w/Ins. 3/8-16 Unc Spring Seat Cprsn 2 250 Blk Zi Screw 3/8-16 X 1.5 Washer 13/32 X 1 X 14 Ga. Pan Seat Knob Seat KEY NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC DECALS 2 16 11 4 4 3 10 2 20 9 1 8 18 5 14 19 KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC ENGINE 2 8 1 3 14 13 38 25 10 26 6 81 5 17 17 72 16 32 62 44 46 33 37 45 33 31 23 40 29 4 OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT Spark Arrester 38
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC ENGINE KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC MOWER DECK 67 157 158 68 156 153 151 40 37 36 40 155 152 143 153 154 144 45 150 40 37 159 46 106 145 103 102 105 105 44 59 56 53 52 55 51 48 54 142 49 147 50 148 104 103 146 33 32 31 102 90 91 30 35 34 104 106 101 92 94 93 21 93 92 95 21 1 147 116 90 2 21 142 113 111 114 21 22 23 24 115 117 25 26 2 121 119 118 16 28 15 14 20 27 29 18 121 3 4 114 18 149 13 5 112 115 6 11 19 21 10 9 118 119 8 40
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC MOWER DECK KEY NO. PART NO.
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC MOWER LIFT 29 28 27 25 24 23 7 8 41 5 37 49 38 30 40 1 36 13 50 4 3 26 6 2 11 6 5 4 12 13 19 13 20 15 31 32 13 19 20 17 18 16 20 15 31 32 42 20
REPAIR PARTS TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER PR18542STC MOWER LIFT KEY PART NO. NO.
NOTES 44
LIMITED WARRANTY The Manufacturer warrants to the original consumer purchaser that this product as manufactured is free from defects in materials and workmanship. For a period of two (2) years from date of purchase by the original consumer purchaser, we will repair or replace, at our option, without charge for parts or labor incurred in replacing parts, any part which we find to be defective due to materials or workmanship. This Warranty is subject to the following limitations and exclusions. 1.
SER VICE SERVICE ® TECUMSEH POLICY WARRANTY ® TECUMSEH Issued January 1980 Revised January 1991 LIMITED WARRANTIES FOR NEW PEERLESS GEAR POWER TRAIN COMPONENTS A.
SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION SIGHTING GUIDE CUT OUT ON D THIS OTT IS A ED L 15° S INES LOP E ONLY RIDE UP AND DOWN HILL, NOT ACROSS HILL 47 SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH SKY LINE OR TREE. 15° MAX. Operate your Tractor up and down the face of slopes (not greater than 15°), never across the face. Make turns gradually to prevent tipping or loss of control. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
PARTS AND SERVICE Your POULAN PRO product has been expertly engineered and carefully manufactured to rigid quality standards. As with all mechanical products, some adjustments or part replacement may be necessary during the life of your unit. FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT PARTS: 1. Consult your dealer/place of purchase. 2. Consult the yellow pages of your phone directory for the name of the nearest service dealer (under “saws” for Chain Saws or under “lawn mowers” for Trimmers, Brushcutters, and Blowers). 3.
